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How can you help?

Providing Information to the Police

All information you provide is critical to an investigation, so be prepared to answer questions regarding your loved one. The more information you are able to provide the stronger an investigation will be.

  • Where was your loved one last seen? What were they doing? Who were they with? Who do they associate with? What do they look like? Do they have any unique markings, like scars? Does your loved one use social media? Are you able to provide information or consent to obtain cellular telephone records? Does/did your loved one engage in any high-risk behaviour or use illegal substances? If you remember any other information after you have already spoken to an officer let them know immediately.

How can you be kept informed?

Ask Questions

Keep a record of the report/file number, who is assigned to the file, and when someone will be next following up with you. If you have any questions/information later on, don’t hesitate to contact the investigator in charge of your file.

Identify a Contact Person

To simplify communication between the police and the family and friends of the missing or murdered per-son, it is important to appoint an individual to act as the primary contact. This person should be a member of the family or a friend who is willing to act as a liaison between the family, investigators, and victim services.

This single point of contact will alleviate any missed information, allow the family to remain informed and the investigative team to remain focused on their task.

The primary contact’s duties may include sharing with police, information that is sensitive or embarrassing to the family, or having to receive from the police, potentially difficult or devastating news. If unable or unwilling to take on this role, victim services may be able to provide assistance.

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