GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP POLICEGENERAL ORDER

NEW REVISEDTITLE: Funeral Policy X

ORDER #: G-2012-09INITIAL ISSUE DATE:

6/1/2012REVISED

ISSUEDATE:

3 MONTHS 6 MONTHS 1 YEAR 2 YEARS OTHERPOLICY REVIEWSCHEDULE: X

# PAGES: 23 ISSUING AUTHORITY: Chief Harry Earle

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X X XOBLIGATION TO REVIEW POLICY AND SEEK ASSISTANCE AS NEEDED

It is the policy of the Gloucester Township Police Department that all officers and applicable employees will thoroughly review and fully familiarize themselves with the attached policy and will adhere to the procedures as described in this policy. Any employee shall request assisting from their supervisor if they should be in need of further explanation or training regarding this policy.

CONTINGENCIES AND UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES

Officers are occasionally confronted with situations where no written guideline exists and supervisor advice is not readily available. As it would be impossible to address all possible situations with written guidelines, considerable discretion is given to the officer handling the situation.

Faced with the need to make decisions or take an action where no guidelines exist, officers should rely on their experience and training, and the following resources;

1. Attorney General guidelines, memorandums, and directives2. Departmental General Order, Special Orders, and Training Bulletins3. New Jersey Title 39 and 2C4. Current Search and Seizure directives

The written directives developed by the Police Department are for internal use only, and do not enlarge an officer’s civil or criminal liability in any way. They should not be construed as the creation of a higher standard of safety or care in an evidentiary sense, with respect to third party claims. Violations of written directives can only be the basis of a complaint by this department, and then only in an administrative disciplinary setting.

DEDICATED TO SERVICE – COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish uniformed responsibilities and procedures for Police Departments located within Camden County when confronted with the death of a member of their police agency, the death of a member's immediate family member, or when a member of their police agency suffers a serious injury or serious medical incident. The intent of this policy is to express respect and bereavement for the seriously injured, critical ill, or deceased and extend sympathy toward family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers and civilian employees. The desires of the family must always be considered before those of the law enforcement community as there can be many reasons why a family may decline to have a police presence at a time of critical injury, illness, or death. This policy has been adopted by the Camden County Chiefs of Police Association to assist in ensuring uniformity when honoring and mourning employees, retired employees, their family members, and on occasion certain community members.

POLICY

It is the policy of the Gloucester Township Police Department that all officers will adhere to the procedures as described in this policy. Officers and employees of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall familiarize themselves with this policy and request assistance from their supervisor if they should be in need of further explanation or training regarding this policy.

This policy distinguishes numerous categories of law enforcement related deaths and injuries and details a general standardized funeral/memorial response for each category. The standardized response has been developed as a guide for the Gloucester Township Police Department and ultimately it is the Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department who may decide to modify the standardized response as he/she deems appropriate.

DEFINITIONS

1. Retired Member Death: A member of the police department who is in good standing and separated from the department. The member can be either sworn or civilian.

2. Active Member Death: A member of the police department who is actively employed and in good standing, and dies as a result of illness, injury (not self-inflicted), or accident sustained while off duty.

3. Line of Duty Death: The death of an active duty officer by criminal or accidental means during the course of performing police functions while on or off duty.

4. Suicide Death: An active or retired member of the police department who purposely takes his/her own life.

5. Funeral Event Commander: A sworn law enforcement officer assigned by the Chief of Police to oversee all operations of the funeral event. Depending on the size of the agency the Funeral Event Commander may be the Chief of Police. In some instances, The Funeral Event Commander may not need to attend the funeral itself but shall ensure the police services listed in this policy are provided. The Funeral Event Commander shall assign personnel and tasks utilizing the National Incident Management System whenever possible and appropriate.

6. Honor Guard Commander: An officer who has been assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to coordinate all honor guard duties and other duties as specified in this policy.

7. Family Liaison Advocate: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to coordinate with the family to gather pertinent information, escort them, obtain belongings, logistical support, and assist them with any pertinent needs.

8. Traffic Safety Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to plan the funeral route if necessary, facilitate transportation needs, coordinate other police agencies arrival, coordinate with the Camden County Chiefs of Police Association (CCCPA) Mutual Aid Coordinator for traffic control needs, and coordinate parking of attendees.

9. Communications Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to coordinate multi-agency communications.

10. Operations/Security Commander: An officer assigned by the Funeral Event Commander to ensure adequate security measures are in place at the funeral site, church, along the funeral route, cemetery, and deceased members home. Such security measures shall include dignitary protection/coordination as necessary.

11. Next of Kin: The closest relative of the deceased member to include spouse, children, parents, siblings, fiancée, or significant others.

12. Immediate Family: Surviving spouse, domestic partner, child, or parent 13. CCCPA Funeral Management Team: A designated group of law enforcement officials and other

members who are experienced in managing law enforcement funerals. The Funeral Management Team shall assist the Funeral Event Commander or assume the duties if desired and approved by the Chief of Police of the respective police department. The Chief of Police of the police department which experienced a death may request the Funeral Management Team by contacting the Mutual Aid Coordinator of the Camden County Chiefs Association. The Mutual Aid Coordinator shall then contact the Camden County Chief’s Association Funeral Management Team Liaison listed in Appendix A of this policy.

14. Benefits Coordinator: The benefits coordinator is responsible for working with the survivors to ensure that all necessary claim forms are filed in a timely fashion and to guarantee that the survivors are aware of all benefits to which they are entitled. The Benefits Coordinator is designated by the Chief of Police and is often an employee of the Human Resources Department. See Appendix D for tasks often completed by the Benefits Coordinator.

15. Public Information Officer: The PIO shall serve at the direction of the Chief of Police or upon his direction the Funeral Event Commander to provide information concerning the funeral event, benefits, details of the incident relating to the death if appropriate, and dissemination of information to other law enforcement agencies.

16. Serious Injury: Bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.

17. Critical Medical Incident: A medical incident where a member is at risk of death or has suffered a sudden medical incident requiring emergency admittance to a hospital.

18. Rank Order: When so directed to assemble at a funeral by order of rank or precedence, personnel shall assemble by superior rank in descending order, patrol officers in the specified uniform if so ordered by seniority, patrol officers non-uniform, patrol officers in civilian attire, retired sworn officers, active civilian personnel, retired civilian personnel.

19. Community Dignitary: An elected sitting official of the Township of Gloucester, first responder, or other significant community member as determined by the Chief of Police.

Table of Contents

Item Page Number Section

Definitions 1-2 -Notification of Death Serious Injury and Sudden Critical Medical Incident – Active Employee 4-5 IA

Notification of Immediate Family Member Death 5 IBNotification of Retired Member/Retired Members Immediate Family Member Death 5 IC

Flags to Half Staff 5-6 IDSafeguarding of Personal Effects 6 IEGeographical Distance Guidelines – Police Services Provided 6 IIADeath Retired Members (Sworn Officer) 6 IIB(1)Death Active Members (Not in the line of duty) 6-7 IIB(2)Death - Line of Duty (Sworn Officer) 7-8 IIB(3)Death Police Department Civilian (Active) 7-8 IIB(4)Death Police Department Civilian (Retired) 8 IIB(5)Death of an Active (Sworn) Members Family Member 8 IIB(6)Death of an Active or Retired (Non Sworn) Family Member 8 IIB(7)Death of Retired Members Immediate Family (Sworn) 8 IIB(8)Death of an Active Member from Suicide 9-9 IIB(9)Death of a Law Enforcement Service Animal 9 IIB(10)Death of a Retired Member from Suicide 9 IIB(11)Death of a Community Dignitary 10 IIB(12)Police Department Actions – Uniform/Chiefs Control 10 IIIMourning Bands 10-11 IIICTributes 11 IIIDFuneral Event, Chaplain, Family Advocate, and Honor Guard Duties 11 IVTraffic Commander Responsibilities 12 VHospital Procedures-Seriously Injured/Death-Employee 12-13 VINational Law Enforcement Memorial 13 VIIIAppendix A – Funeral Management Team 14 -Appendix B – Notification Procedures 15-16 -Appendix C – Military Honors 17-22 -Appendix D – Benefits Coordinator Reference 23-26 -

I. Notification of Serious Injury/Critical Medical Incident/Death

A. Notification of Death, Serious Injury and Sudden Critical Medical Incident – Active Employee

1. The Chief of Police shall be notified immediately upon the death, or serious injury, or critical medical incident consistent with Gloucester Township Police Department existing procedures and protocols.

2. The Chief of Police or his designee shall ensure that the Police Chaplain, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and/or Cop 2 Cop) representatives are notified immediately of the death, serious injury, or critical medical incident of an active member in accordance with the Employee Assistance/Critical Incident Stress Management Policy.

3. Notification of the death of a member in the line of duty shall be made to the family as soon as possible by the Chief of Police or his designee consistent with Gloucester Township Police Department departmental procedures and protocols, Appendix B of this policy, and The New Jersey Attorney General’s Directive addressing death notifications.

4. The Chief of Police shall ensure that the designated police fraternal organization leader bargaining unit leader or union leader is notified immediately when an active member suffers a death, serious injury, or critical medical incident.

5. The on duty supervisor of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall ensure the New Jersey State Police Regional Information Operations Center (ROIC) is immediately notified of the line of duty death of an active sworn member.

6. The Chief of Police or his designee shall determine if notification to the ROIC is appropriate when an active sworn member dies or suffers a serious injury in the line of duty.

7. The Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall ensure that prompt notification is made to the President of the Camden County Chief’s Police Association Regarding the death or serious injury of an active law enforcement officer of the Gloucester Township Police Department.

8. The Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall ensure that timely notification is made to the President of the Camden County Chiefs Police Association when it is learned that an active law enforcement officer has suffered a critical medical incident. The wishes of the ill officer shall be of primary concern and if privacy is preferred by the officer and his family then no such notifications shall occur.

9. The Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall determine if it is appropriate and beneficial to the law enforcement community at large to notify the President of the Camden County Chiefs Association of the death, serious injury or critical medical incident of a retired employee or law enforcement service animal.

10. The Chief of Police of the Gloucester Township Police Department shall ensure that appropriate notifications of the death or serious injury are made as appropriate to other law enforcement agencies utilizing standardized communication methods such as NCIC, TRAK, Email Groups, etc. The Chief of Police shall utilize the PIO when possible or appropriate. The Chief of Police or the Funeral Event Commander shall continue to utilize the PIO whenever possible to inform the law enforcement community and the public of funeral details as appropriate.

11. The Chief of Police shall ensure timely and appropriate notification is made to known organizations in which the employee is or was a member of or employed by. These shall include organizations such as but not limited to: fire departments, police departments, government entities, civic organizations, religious groups, reserve military units, etc.

12. The Chief of Police shall ensure that information concerning the death of an active member, retired member, or active or retired member's immediate family is disseminated to active members and retired members of the Gloucester Township Police.

13. The Chief of Police shall ensure that prompt notification is made to the representatives of the Camden County Hero Scholarship Fund so they may begin to offer support and services to survivors.

B. Notification of Death of an Immediate Family Member – Active Employee

1. In addition to an employee notifying their supervisor of the loss of an immediate family member for leave purposes, employees who suffer the loss of an immediate family member are encouraged to notify their supervisors of a loss for the purpose of having a Bereavement Notice issued from the Office of the Chief of Police. It is assumed that when an employee has informed his/her supervisor that the supervisor will notify his Commanders and that a Bereavement Notice will be issued. If the employee desires to have no such Bereavement Notice issued, the employee must specifically inform his/her supervisor of this who shall make the appropriate notifications via the chain of command to the Chief of Police.

2. Upon a Supervisor learning of the death of an active employee’s immediate family member, he/she shall notify his/her Commander. The Commander shall notify the Chief of Police via the chain of command. The supervisor shall gather as much information as possible regarding the name of the deceased and funeral arrangements.

C. Notification of Death – Retired Policy Employee and Their Immediate Family Members

1. Retired employees are encouraged to notify the Gloucester Township Police Department of the death of one of their immediate family members.

2. Retired employees are also encouraged to review with their immediate family members on how to properly notify the Gloucester Township Police Department in the event of their death.

3. Upon learning of the death of a retired member’s death or a retired member’s immediate family member, a bereavement notice shall be issued by the Office of the Chief of Police to active and retired personnel via email.

D. Flags Lowered to Half Staff

1. In the event of an active death of a member of the Gloucester Township Police Department the Chief of Police will request permission from the Mayor to fly the Municipal flags at half-staff and other buildings as appropriate and when so detailed in Section II of this policy. (Fire Departments, etc.)

E. Safeguarding of Personal Effects

1. If appropriate, the supervisor at the scene of the death or serious bodily injury shall be responsible to safeguard the deceased member’s effects until turned over to such person as designated by the Chief of Police. Internal Affairs personnel for the securing of personnel effects whenever possible.

2. The Chief of Police shall designate a person to return personal effects to the family, and make arrangements to collect department issued equipment at the appropriate time. This person may be the Family Advocate or another person as determined by the Chief of Police. When Internal Affairs personnel has secured the personal effects the release of such effects to the family or to the police representative releasing the effects to the family shall be supervised by Internal Affairs personnel.

II. Services and Actions Relating to Specific Situational Deaths/Injuries

A. Geographical Distance Guidelines

1. The following services, honors and representation shall be provided to all members who live within a 100 mile radius of the Gloucester Township Police Department and who qualify for services as per this policy. It shall be the discretion of the Chief of Police to make exceptions or changes to any services of representation listed in this policy.

B. Member Classifications

1. Retired Members Death (Sworn Officer) Department Representationa. Assignment of Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Policeb. Assignment of other support personnel as necessaryc. Honor Guard Compliment to be set by the Honor Guard Commanderd. Uniformed Pallbearers if desired by the familye. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within this agency’s jurisdictional

boundaries or when directed by the Chief of Policef. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as determined by the Chief of Policeg. Police member visitation in rank order when appropriate

2. Active Members Death- Not in the Line of Duty (Full Time Sworn Officer)- Department Representationa. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Policeb. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocatec. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinatord. Assignment of a Public Information Officere. Assignment of a Traffic Services Commanderf. Assignment of a Operations/Security Commander as necessary g. Death announcement via police radio prior to funeralh. Police member rank order visitation as appropriatei. Request, if necessary, activation of the Camden County Chiefs of Police Funeral

Management Teamj. Honor Guard Compliment to be set by the Honor Guard Commanderk. Uniformed Pallbearers if desired by the familyl. Police Escort/Full Intersection Traffic Control when within this agency’s jurisdictional

boundaries or when directed by the Chief of Policem. Mourning bunting on buildingn. Mourning Bunting on Police Vehicle/Desk/Locker if appropriateo. Last call for service police radio broadcast (Chief’s discretion)p. Police Bugler/pipe band (Chief’s discretion)q. Uniform: Class A or as determined by the Chief of Police

3. Line of Duty Death (Sworn Officer) Department Representationa. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander by the Chief of Policeb. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocatec. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinatord. Assignment of a Public Information Officere. Assignment of a Traffic Services Commanderf. Assignment of a Security/Operations Commanderg. Request, if necessary, Activation of the Camden County Chief s of Police Funeral

Management Teamh. Full Honor Guard complimenti. Death announcement via police radio prior to funeral

j. Uniformed pallbearers if desired by familyk. Police Escort with complete intersection controll. Police bugler and pipe bandm. Firing squad/rifle volleyn. American Flag folding and presentationo. Tribute vehicle and mourning buntingp. Aviation unit fly over requestq. Last call for service police radio broadcast at gravesiter. Mounted horse unit with rider less horse and reversed bootss. Full Military Honors (Additional Details in Appendix C)t. Uniform: Class A or as determined by the Chief of Policeu. Special Circumstances

1. Commendation of Valor or Distinguished Valor Recipients and Active Chief of Police in Good Standing will receive a Formal Police Funeral with Military Honors

4. Police Department Civilian Personnel (Active)a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commanderb. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator as necessaryc. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocated. Assignment of other support functions as necessarye. Request, if necessary, Activation of the Camden County Chiefs of Police Funeral

Management Teamf. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies jurisdictional boundaries

or as approved by the Chief of Police g. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted a the entrance to viewing/funeralh. Death announcement via police radio prior to funerali. Uniform: Uniform of the day or other as determined by the Chief of Police

5. Death of Police Department Civilian Personnel (Retired)a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commanderb. Assignment of other support functions as necessaryc. Police Escort/Limited Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies boundaries or as

approved by the Chief of Policed. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as determined by the Chief of Police

6. Death of an Active Sworn Member’s Immediate Familya. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander b. Assignment of a Family Advocate c. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator d. Assignment of a Traffic Commandere. Assignment of other support functions as appropriatef. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies jurisdictional boundaries

or as approved by the Chief of Police g. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted at the door of the funeral/viewingh. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as determined by the Chief of Police

7. Death of an Active or Retired (Non Sworn) Member’s Immediate Family a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander and other support functions as necessaryb. Police escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies boundaries or as

approved by the Chief of Police c. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as determined by the Chief of Police

8. Death of a Retired Members Immediate Family (Sworn) a. Notification to other agencies, fraternal organizations, union leaders, and the CCCPA as

determined by the Chief of Police b. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander and other support functions as necessaryc. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies boundaries or as

approved by the Chief of Police d. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as determined by the Chief of Police

9. Death of an Active Member from Suicidea. No criminal charges pending against the member or ongoing criminal investigation

1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator4. Assignment of other support functions as necessary5. Wearing of mourning bands as described in Section IIIC6. Police Escort/Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies jurisdictional

boundaries or as approved by the Chief of Police7. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted at entrance to viewing/funeral8. Uniform optional for police members. For those who select to wear uniform -Uniform of

the Day/Civilian Attire or as directed by the Chief of Police.

b. Criminal charges pending against the member or an ongoing criminal investigation with the deceased as a subject officer.1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Advocate3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator4. The wearing of mourning bands is not authorized5. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals6. Uniform: Not authorized for personnel attending or to be worn by the deceased or as

determined by the Chief of Police

10. Death of a Law Enforcement Service Animala. Active service animal member in the line of duty

1. Notifications consistent in this policy with those of a law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty

2. Assignment of a Funeral Event Coordinator3. Assignment of a Public Information Officer4. Assignment of other support functions as appropriate5. Modified Full Military Honors as determined by the Chief of Police6. Mourning bands as described in section III(C)(2)7. Uniform: Class A or as determined by the Chief of Police

b. Active service animal member natural causes1. Determined by the Chief of Police of Gloucester Township Police Department

c. Retired service animal member 1. Determined by the Chief of Police of Gloucester Township Police Department

11. Death of a Retired Member from Suicidea. No criminal charges pending against the member or ongoing criminal investigation

1. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander if determined necessary by the Chief of Police

2. Assignment of a Family Liaison Officer if determined necessary by the Chief of Police3. Assignment of a Benefits Coordinator if determined necessary by the Chief of Police4. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals5.Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as directed by the Chief of Police.

b. Criminal charges pending against the member or an ongoing criminal investigation with the deceased as a subject officer.

1. Police Escort commonly associated with civilian funerals and within jurisdictional boundaries if necessary for the safety of the community and as determined by the Chief of Police

a. Uniform: Not authorized for personnel attending or to be worn by the deceased or as determined by the Chief of Police

12. Death of Community Dignitary (Elected Officials, First Responder, Etc.)1. Participation and assistance associated at a funeral event of a Community Dignitary is at the

discretion of the Chief of Police. Such participation may include: a. Assignment of a Funeral Event Commander if determined necessary by the Chief of

Policeb. Police Escort/Limited Intersection Traffic Control when within the agencies boundaries

or as approved by the Chief of Policec. Uniform: Uniform of the Day/Civilian Attire or as directed by the Chief of Policed. Two (2) Honor Guard Members posted at the door of the funeral/viewinge. Assignment of other support functions as appropriate

III. Police Department Actions- Uniform/Chief’s Control

A. The Chief of Police or designee shall be responsible for coordinating all funeral arrangements with the Funeral Event Commander in the event of a member’s death or death of an immediate family member.

B. Other Jurisdictions: Department representation for other jurisdictional police employees.

1. The Chief of Police may at his discretion authorize the following:a. Department personnel to attend funeral services as representatives of the Gloucester

Township Police Departmentb. Department motor vehicles as escortsc. Assistance as requested

C. Mourning Bands are authorized to be worn during the following times:

1. May 15th in honor of National Peace Officer’s Memorial Day or any other day defined as National Peace Officers Memorial Day

2. Officers killed in the line of duty or on active duty from surrounding jurisdictions from the time of death until 2400 hours the day of the funeral as directed by the of Police or his designee

3. Active or retired sworn members of the police department from the time of death until 2400 hours on the 10th day after the funeral

4. Active civilian members of the police department from the time of death until 2400 hours on the 10th day after the funeral

5. In the line of duty members of the police department from the time of death until 2400 hours on the 30th day after the funeral

6. Any special circumstances as deemed appropriate by the Chief of Police

D. Any form of tribute or memorial involving the Police Administration Building, municipal/borough building, police motor vehicle, police uniform, police emblem, police agency, or tribute containing the deceased’s name must be authorized by the Chief of Police.

1. If authorized, the tribute vehicle and mourning bunting will be on display where appropriate at the viewing and funeral ceremonies.

2. The tribute vehicle will remain on display until 2400 hours the day of the funeral.3. Mourning bunting will remain on display until 2400 hours the 10th day after the funeral.

IV. Funeral Event Commander, Police Chaplain (if applicable), Family Liaison Advocate, and Honor Guard Commander Duties

A. When assigned to a funeral detail or funeral incident by the Chief of Police the Funeral Event Commander, Police Chaplain, Family Liaison Advocate or Honor Guard Commander shall ensure the following actions are taken. It is the responsibility of the Funeral Event Commander to assign the tasks to the respective individuals or personnel and ensure their completion as appropriate.

1. Interview the family or representative concerning funeral arrangements, explaining what personnel are available and describing what type of funeral ceremony and internment can be arranged.

2. Ascertain from the family the following information:a. A history of the deceased, including names and addresses of survivorsb. Membership in fraternal or service organizationsc. Time, date and cause of death (if known)d. Name and address of the funeral directore. Time and place of viewingf. Time and place of servicesg. Place of internmenth. History of employment information and accomplishments

3. Coordinate with the funeral director, the participation of the uniformed members of the police department

4. Ensure updated notifications to Fraternal Order of Police leadership as appropriate5. Ensure updated and appropriate notifications to Police Associations and Police Organizations as

applicable6. Continue to provide the Public Information Officer with the details provided by the family and

any additional information about the incident necessary for a Media Releases and other broadcasts as appropriate

V. Traffic Commander Responsibilities

A. Prior to the funeral date the Funeral Event Commander and Honor Guard Commander will approve the survey plan developed by the personnel assigned to develop the funeral route and traffic safety plan. The plan will include the site of the funeral home, church, home of the deceased and cemetery. The plan will also coordinate parking arrangements, direction of traffic at the location of services, and traffic intersection posts along the procession route.

VI. Hospital Procedures- Seriously Injured/Death-Employee at Hospital

A. The primary purpose of department officers at the hospital is to provide support and assistance to the family of any officer seriously injured or killed in the line of duty. The chief of police, or next highest-ranking officer in his absence, shall join the family upon his arrival at the hospital to express the agency’s support. The next highest-ranking officer shall assume responsibility for the following:

1. Ensure that arrangements are made to establish waiting facilities in a private area for use by the injured or deceased officer’s immediate survivors. Access to this area shall be strictly limited to persons having a reasonable need to enter and those requested by the family.

2. Instruct medical personnel to report pertinent medical information on the officer’s condition to the family before any other parties are notified.

3. Designate a separate media staging area and assign a PIO as the primary point of media contact.

4. Assist family officers in accordance with their desires and hospital policy in gaining access to the injured or deceased officer.

a. If a possibility exists that the family may be able to visit with an officer prior to his death, they should most certainly be afforded that opportunity.

b. The family members should be made aware of what they may see in the emergency room/trauma unit and shall be accompanied at all times if so requested.

5. Provide hospital personnel with all necessary billing information for the medical services being rendered. The bills shall be directed to the Gloucester Township Police Department through the worker’s compensation insurance carrier and not the officer’s personal home when related to injured on duty events.

6. Officers shall avoid idle promises or false misleading statements to the family, such as "We'll retire his/her badge," "We'll promote him/her", or suggesting medications or sedatives.

7. Confer with a representative of the law enforcement agency providing primary police service in the jurisdiction where the hospital is located.

8. Greet any officials arriving to show support to the family.9. Ensure that the family is promptly made aware of new developments concerning the

incident that gave rise to the officer’s injury or death.10. Provide for the constant presence of an officer of the notification delegation to

provide assistance as needed and to transport the family home when appropriate.11. Obtain all personnel effects of the deceased for return to the family at a later time in

accordance with this policy.

VII. Benefits Coordinator Duties

A. See Appendix D

VIII. The National Law Enforcement Memorial

A. The National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C., tracks all law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The names of all officers killed in the line of duty for the calendar year are dedicated on National Peace Officers Memorial Day of the following calendar year.

B. Applications for the National Law Enforcement Memorial can be obtained by calling the Washington Office at (202) 737-3400.

Appendix A

Camden County Chiefs of Police AssociationFuneral Management Team

Chiefs Association Liaison:

Chief Harry EarleGloucester Township Police1261 Chews Landing RoadLaurel Springs, NJ 08021

Headquarters: (856) 228-4500Office Direct: (856) 374-3505

Cell: (609) 820-9047hearle@gtpolice.com

Appendix BNotification Procedures

A. Death Notification1. Notification of the individual(s) listed on the officer’s emergency notification form (if available),

followed by those to the next of kin, should be made as soon as possible and, if possible, coincidental with command notifications.

2. The name of the deceased officer shall not be released to the media or other parties before survivors are notified. If the media has already obtained information related to the death, they should be asked to withhold the information until after the notifications have been completed.

3. All notifications should be made by at least two individuals, to include members of this department, chaplains, or other support personnel.

4. Whenever possible, line-of-duty death notifications should be made in person by the chief law enforcement executive, or his or her designee, and another member of this department, preferably an individual with personal knowledge of the deceased officer and his or her family, such as a partner or close friend. In addition and where feasible, the police chaplain (if available) or other crisis intervention specialist should be present during the notification.

5. Where available, unmarked police vehicles should be used for transport to the location of the survivors.

6. Prior to contacting the next of kin, notifying officials shall do the following:a. Gather and familiarize themselves with essential details concerning the deceased, to

include full name, age, race and home address, as well as details of the death, location of the body and personal effects and other pertinent information.

b. Ensure that the deceased has been positively identified.c. Gather readily available information concerning the survivors that may aid in the

notification. This includes, but is not limited to, whether survivors are elderly, disabled, visually or hearing impaired, have medical problems or do not speak English, in which case a translator or officer who speaks the particular language should be provided. If possible, officers should obtain the names of the survivor’s closest relative, friend, family doctor, and clergyman.

7. Whenever the health of immediate survivors is a concern, emergency medical services personnel shall be requested to stand by.

8. Upon arrival at the residence or place of business, officials shalla. check the accuracy of the location;b. identify themselves by name, rank ,and departmental affiliation; c. ask permission to enter the residence or, in the case of a business or other location, move

to a place of privacy;d. request to speak to the immediate survivor; ande. verify the relationship of the survivor to the deceased.

9. Every reasonable effort shall be made to make the death notification in the privacy of the survivor’s home or in another location away from public scrutiny.

10. Prior to making notification, officials should determine if other members of the family are in the residence. Officials may wish to bring them together for the notification, but should defer to the wishes of the immediate survivor.

11. Notifying officials should address the survivor(s) in a straightforward manner and use easy-to-understand language to briefly explain the circumstances of the incident and the fact that the individual is dead.

a. Officials should not use euphemisms such as “passed away” or “no longer with us” in order to avoid using the term “dead,” as these expressions may create confusion or false hope.

b. Officials should not provide graphic aspects of the incident or the individual’s death. Police jargon should be avoided.

c. Officials should refer to the deceased using terms reflecting the deceased’s relationship to the survivor (e.g., son, daughter).

12. Notifying officials should be prepared for unexpected responses from survivors to include fainting, hysteria, and possible verbal or physical assault.

13. Survivors should be provided with sufficient time to regain composure following delivery of the death notice. Notifying officials should avoid attempts in the interim to provide comfort by using simple platitudes or trite phrases (e.g., “I know how you feel,” “I know how hard this is for you.”).

14. Before leaving, the notifying officials shall provide the family with contact information for the various department personnel who will assist them in the coming days, weeks, or months.

15. Officials should not leave a lone survivor unattended until all reasonable efforts have been made to garner first-hand support from the survivor’s family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, family clergy, crisis counselors, or other community social service agency. Officers should provide or arrange for transportation of essential individuals where necessary.

16. If the opportunity to get the family to the hospital exists prior to the officer’s death, notification officers shall inform the hospital liaison officer that the family is en route. In such cases, immediate transportation should be provided for survivors. During transportation, all police radios should be turned off.

17. If necessary, arrangements for childcare or care for elderly relatives shall be made by notifying officers.

18. Communication of information concerning the officer and the incident shall, whenever possible, be restricted to the telephone or other secure means of communication to avoid interception by the media or others.

19. The notification officer shall be responsible for identification of additional survivors outside the area and shall make any notifications as desired by the immediate family. Such notifications shall be made by contacting the law enforcement agency in that jurisdiction and requesting that a personal notification be made.

20. The notification officer shall submit a written report to the Chief of Police specifying the identity, time, and place of survivors notified.

Appendix CMilitary Honors

I. Detailed Procedures- Full Military Honors

A. Full Military Honors (Chief’s Discretion)1. The following procedures will be followed for a police funeral with military honors. Active and

retired police personnel funeral procedures may be adjusted by the Funeral Event Commander upon approval of the Chief of Police as appropriate.

B. Assignment of Attending Personnel

1. Vehicles transporting personnel will be coordinated by the respective Commanding Officer2. The Funeral Event Commander shall select a pre-designated assembly location away from the

immediate area of the funeral home or church where briefing procedures shall be conducted.3. Whenever possible, members shall be formed into ranks to facilitate their orderly movement to

the services as a group.

C. Honor Guard Responsibilities

1. The Funeral Event Commander shall assign an Honor Guard Commander.2. The Honor Guard shall be posted whenever the remains of the deceased is on public view3. The Honor Guard shall stand guard in shifts of two (2), taking positions at the head and foot of

the casket, and stand at Parade Rest. No salutes are required when posted.4. The Honor Guard detail shall be concluded when the pallbearers take possession of the casket.5. Ensure all aspects of the funeral are coordinated with the Camden County Police Chiefs

Association Funeral Management Team.

D. Honor Guard Relief Procedures

1. The relieving Guard shall march forward and halt facing the duty guard and shall assume the position of attention.

2. The Duty Guard shall come to attention at which time a salute shall be exchanged.3. The Duty Guard shall take two side steps and march off and the relieving guard shall step

forward, execute an about-face and assume the Parade Rest position.

Note: The procedures outlined shall be conducted in a military manner.

4. The length of guard tours shall be designated by the Honor Guard Funeral Commander, but shall not be longer than Twenty (20) minutes except during the services.

5. During the periods in which the family wishes to be alone with the deceased, the Honor Guard shall leave the room.

6. The last change of the guard should be timed to take place immediately prior to the start of the services.

E. Pallbearers Responsibilities

1. Pallbearers six (6) or eight (8), as designated by the Honor Guard Funeral Coordinator, shall wear white gloves.

2. The pallbearers shall assemble, prior to the funeral for instructions from the Honor Guard Funeral Commander and the funeral director.

3. The pallbearers, assisted by the Honor Guard shall relay the floral pieces for placement in the flower cars.

F. Firing Party Responsibilities

1. A firing party, with rifleman and an officer in charge, shall be appointed by the Honor Guard Funeral Commander when appropriate. This firing party should consist of 7 riflemen and an officer in charge whenever possible, but may have less if necessary.

2. The firing party shall be responsible to report to the grave site well in advance of the funeral procession.

3. The officer in charge of the firing party shall position it in a safe but conspicuous location in relation to the grave site.

4. The Honor Guard Funeral Commander shall arrange for the issuance of the appropriate number of patrol rifles.

G. Bugler Responsibilities

1. When appropriate the Honor Guard Commander under the discretion of the Funeral Event Commander shall appoint a bugler to play Taps.

2. The bugler shall be responsible to report to the grave site well in advance of the funeral procession.

3. The bugler shall assume a conspicuous position at an appropriate distance from the grave site.

H. Funeral Home Services Procedures

1. Arrival should be timed to permit immediate entry into the funeral home without extended delay.2. Members shall remove their hats and place them under their support side arm as they enter the

funeral home.

I. Post Funeral Home Services Procedures

1. The Honor Guard Commander will form two (2) facing ranks, approximately eight feet apart forming an aisle from the hearse to the funeral home and assume the position of Parade Rest.

2. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.3. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking officer to the right

and at the hearse.4. Division personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall form ranks to the

rear of the uniformed personnel. Retired Chiefs and Retired Deputy Chiefs shall be given a place of prominence in the ranks.

5. Immediately upon the appearance of the casket, the Honor Guard Funeral Commander shall give the command “Detail- Attention” followed by the command “Present Arms.”a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the casket is carried

through the aisle and placed in the hearse.b. At this time, the command “Order- Arms” shall be given.

J. After placing the casket in the hearse, the pallbearers shall stand at attention in two (2) files facing the hearse in the same position as when carrying the casket.

K. The Honor Guard Commander shall then give the command “Detail- Dismissed.” At this time personnel should move silently to their vehicles and proceed to the church.

L. Chapel/Church Services Procedures

1. Upon arrival from the funeral home or if no funeral home services are conducted, after the briefing the Honorary Pallbearers (members in uniform) at the command of the Honor Guard Funeral Commander will form two (2) facing ranks approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the street to the church, and assume the position of Parade Rest.

2. When the hearse arrives at the church, the Honor Guard Funeral Commander shall give the command, “Detail – Attention.” After the family and friends are seated in the church the pallbearers shall move in formation to the rear of the hearse ready to remove the casket. The Chaplain shall take a position near the hearse.

3. The pallbearers shall remove the casket from the hearse, and led by the chaplain/civilian clergyman, carry it feet first into the church. The honorary pallbearers execute the hand salute at the command “Present Arms” given by Honor Guard Commander as the casket is started in motion toward the church. As soon as the casket has been carried into the church, the Honor Guard Commander shall give the command “Order, Arms” and “At Ease.”

4. In the church the pallbearers preceded by the chaplain/civilian clergyman, shall place the casket on the church truck and two (2) pallbearers, one (1) in the front and one in the rear shall guide it down the aisle. They will return to the vestibule after it is in place.

5. Members shall remove their hats and place them under their support side arm as they enter the church. They shall move in an orderly manner to the space reserved for uniformed members (usually the left front). They shall remain standing until the Honor Guard Commander issues the command “Be Seated.” When seated, the hats will be place in their laps.

Note: If seating is not available upon termination of the service, members upon the command in a low voice by the Honor Guard Commander, “Detail Rise,” shall rise and place their hats under their support side arms preparing to filing past the casket. They shall hold their hats in this position until they have passed the casket and arrived outside the church.

M. Post Chapel/Church Services Procedures

1. After passing by the body, Department members shall file out and form two facing ranks, approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the hearse to the church, and assume the position of Parade Rest.

2. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.3. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking officer to the right

and at the hearse. The next highest ranking officer will stand across the aisle from the Chief of Police.

4. The hearse shall be parked at a distance to allow sufficient space for the alignment of Department personnel.

5. Division personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall form ranks to the rear of the uniformed personnel.

6. Immediately upon the appearance of the casket, the Honor Guard Commander shall give the command, “Detail Attention” followed by the command “Present Arms.”

a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the casket is carried through the aisle and place in the hearse.

b. At this time, the command “Order, Arms” shall be given.

7. After placing the casket in the hearse, the pallbearers shall stand at attention in two (2) files facing the hearse in the same position as when carrying the casket.

8. The Honor Guard Commander shall then give the command “Detail, Dismissed.” At this time personnel should move silently to their vehicles and proceed to the grave site.

N. Funeral Procession Procedures:

The funeral procession shall be formed in the following order, but is subject to change by the funeral director or family of the deceased:

1. Escort car2. Flower car3. Clergy4. Pallbearers5. Chief of Police6. Hearse7. Family, immediate8. Relatives9. Friends10. Police Personnel11. Escort Car

a. The Funeral Event Commander shall arrange for two (2) marked escort vehicles. One (1) vehicle shall lead the funeral procession and the other vehicles shall be in the rear.

b. In long funeral processions, marked vehicles shall be staggered with unmarked vehicles throughout the procession to keep traffic from breaking into the procession.

c. When circumstances are such that the procession cannot reach the grave site in a timely fashion, i.e., large details, etc., the Honor Guard Commander shall have an appropriate number of officers proceed to the cemetery prior to the procession and form in appropriate ranks leaving space for other officers.

O. Graveside Service Procedures

1. At the cemetery, Department personnel shall form two (2) facing ranks, approximately eight (8) feet apart, forming an aisle from the grave to the hearse, and assume the position of Parade Rest.

2. The hearse shall be parked at a distance to allow sufficient space for the alignment of Department personnel.

3. The aisle shall be formed by uniformed personnel only.4. The aisle shall be formed in Rank Order with the Chief of Police or ranking officer to the right

and at the grave. Other uniform personnel shall form ranks to the rear of the aisle. 5. Personnel in civilian dress and representatives of other agencies shall form ranks to the rear of

the uniformed personnel. Retired Chiefs and Retires Deputy Chiefs shall be given a place of prominence in the ranks.

6. Immediately upon the casket being removed from the hearse, the Honor Guard Commander shall give the command “Detail Attention,” followed by the command “Present, Arms.”

a. All uniformed personnel shall execute and maintain the hand salute as the casket, preceded by the chaplain/clergyman, is carried through the aisle and placed over the grave.

b. Personnel in civilian dress shall in the above cases stand at attention (uncovered) and place hand or headdress over the left breast.

7. The pallbearers upon reaching the grave shall place the casket on the lowering device. They shall remain in place facing the casket. The pallbearers shall raise the flag from the casket and hold it in a horizontal position, waist high, until the conclusion of Taps.

8. When the flag has been raised off of the casket, the Honor Guard Commander shall give the command, “Order Arms” followed by the command “Parade Rest.”

9. When department personnel have been brought to Parade Rest, the chaplain/clergyman shall conduct the graveside service. At the conclusion of the benediction, the chaplain/clergyman shall move two (2) steps to the side or rear. During the benediction, all personnel shall bow their heads.

10. When the service has been completed, the Honor Guard Commander shall command Department personnel to attention, followed by the command “Present, Arms”; at which time the Firing Party, will fire three (3) volleys of blank cartridges, assume the position of Present Arms at the command of the officer in charge of the Firing Party and remain in that position until the conclusion of Taps. The bugler, positioned near the Firing Party and in view of the next of kin, shall sound Taps immediately following the last volley.

Note: This is the ONLY Hand Salute done with a Slow Movement.

11. At the conclusion of Taps, the rifles of the Firing Party shall be locked and all Department personnel shall be commanded by the Honor Guard Commander to “Order, Arms.” The pallbearers shall then fold the flag into the shape of a cocked hat (Appendix A-6). The flag shall not touch the casket. The badge of the deceased shall be pinned to the flag. Three (3) spent rifle rounds shall be placed inside of the folds of the flag. The flag, when folded, shall be passed to the pallbearer at the head of the grave who shall face left and place the flag at chest level in the hands of the Chief of Police or representative. The pallbearer will salute the flag for three (3) seconds and then face right to assume the original position.

The Chief of Police will recite the following:

“On behalf of the Governor of New Jersey The Mayor of Gloucester Township and a grateful State and Township; please accept this symbol of our appreciation Of your (relationship) service to the (Insert Community Name ) and The (Insert Agency Name) Department.”

12. At that time, as chief of Police presents the flag to the family of the deceased, the command, “Detail, Parade Rest,” shall be given by the Honor Guard Commander. Department personnel will remain at Parade Rest until the family moves away from the grave.

13. When the family has cleared the aisle, the Honor Guard Commander shall command, “Detail, Attention,” followed by the command, “Dismissed.”

Appendix D

Benefits Coordinator Reference

This appendix shall serve as a reference for the Benefits Coordinator and shall not be considered a mandatory action whenever a Benefits Coordinator is assigned.

A. The chief of police shall appoint a Benefits Coordinator to assist the fallen officer’s family with immediate and long-term assistance in respect to benefits:

1. The Benefits Coordinator should be close to the family of the deceased officer and must be willing and able to devote his time and assistance over a period of six (6) months or longer.

B. The Benefit’s Coordinator will need to obtain at least eighteen (18) certified copies of the following documents:

1. Deceased officer’s birth certificate.2. Deceased officer’s death certificate.3. The deceased officer’s marriage certificate.

If the deceased officer was previously married, copies of his/her divorce decree will also be needed.

4. The widow’s birth certificate.5. The children(s) birth certificates.

C. The Benefit’s Coordinator should have the following information available at all times:1. The deceased officer’s:

Date of death; Date of birth; Marriage date; All children’s birth dates, and Widow’s birth date

2. The social security numbers for: The deceased officer; The widow(er), and All children

D. New Jersey Police and Fire Pension

1. The police and fire pension system provides for 3 ½ times the salary of the deceased officer as a one-time payment and an annual pension of 70% of the deceased officer’s salary.

2. Health benefits are also available to the widow(er) and children.

3. The college tuition of the deceased officer’s children shall be paid for by thepension and the widow(er) is entitled to this benefit for a period of eight (8) years following the death.

4. The benefits coordinator should petition Human Resources for copies of the application submitted by the township. Inquire as to the anticipated date of .

approval and the projected date of the first pension check.

5. Ensure that the application for benefits is filed in a timely fashion. If it is not submitted by the last day of the month in which the deceased officer was killed, the survivors will lose a month of benefits.

E. Social Security Benefits

1. Social security benefits are available for the widow(er) and children of the deceased officer.2. The benefits coordinator should call the local Social Security office and make an appointment for

the widow(er).3. Accompany the widow(er) to the appointment and bring all of the previously mentioned

information and certificates. In addition, bring a W-2 Form for proof of earnings.4. The toll-free number for Social Security is 1-800-772-1213.

F. Workmen’s Compensation Claims

1. Human Resources should be available to assist with Workmen’s Compensation claims.2. The benefit’s coordinator should ensure that the claim is filed and ask for copies of the

applications submitted.3. Inquire as to when the benefits are expected to start.4. In New Jersey, the widow(er) of a police officer killed in the line of duty is entitled to 60% of the

deceased officer’s weekly wages.5. Additionally, the family is entitled to $3,500.00 for funeral expenses payable to the funeral

home.

G. The Federal Death Benefit

1. A part of the Public Safety Officer’s Death Benefit, it is available to survivors of police officers killed in the line of duty.

2. A one-time payment of more than $127,000.00 is divided between the surviving spouse and children.

3. The following is a list of items that will be needed to complete the application:

A detailed statement of circumstances on agency letterhead, notarized and with an original signature of the authorized official from the agency.

Notarized copy of the investigation report with an original signature of the investigation officer.

Notarized complete autopsy report with an original signature of an official from the medical agency that performed the autopsy.

A toxicology report with an original signature of the official from the medical agency that performed the analysis.

A Death Certificate with a raised seal. The personnel that handle the Federal Death Benefit can be reached in Washington, D.C.

at (202) 307-0635.

H. Miscellaneous Benefits

1. State FOP or PBA2. Other police union3. Township/Borough supplied life insurance plan4. Private organization and foundations5. Camden County Hero Scholarship Fund

I. County Surrogate’s Offices

1. Check with funeral director for information on what is needed or contact the Surrogate’s Office by phone.

2. If the deceased officer had a will, the survivors should go to the Surrogate’s Office to present the will for probate.

3 .Bank officials monitor the death notices and will seal individuals safe deposit box upon his death so that a supervisor can inventory the contents. Assets in the box will be valued for their current value for use at the date of death. All of this will be part of the person’s estate.

Deducted from the taxable portion of the estate will be any debts and legitimate bills, funeral expenses and other fee.

The entire process of filing and paying of taxes should be done within eight months after the person has died.

J. Transfer of Vehicle Titles

1. If the vehicle is titled to both husband and wife, it can be transferred to the surviving spouse by submitting the old title, a notarized affidavit (form CO-45-Affidavit of Surviving Spouse) stating that they were married to each other at the time of death and a copy of the Death Certificate. This can be done at any Motor Vehicle Services Office.

2. If the owner dies intestate (without a will) and the estate of the owner is $10,000.00 or more, the title can be transferred to the surviving spouse by submitting to the Motor Vehicles Agency the old title properly assigned and executed by the Administrator of the estate and a Surrogate’s Short Certificate. The cost is $5.00 and the new registration fee.

If the estate is worth less than $10,000.00 the title can be transferred to the surviving spouse by submitting to the Motor Vehicle Agency the old title and a certified copy of the Surviving Spouse Affidavit signed before the Surrogate of the County in which the deceased resided. The cost is the same as above.

If the owner dies with a will, the title can be transferred to the surviving spouse by submitting to the Motor Vehicle Agency the old title properly assigned and executed by the executor of the estate and a Surrogate’s Short certificate.

3. A motor vehicle registered in the name of the deceased may be operated for thirty (30) days after the date of death by the surviving spouse or immediate family officer. If there is a lien on the car, contact the lending institution for further instructions.