Missing Persons Categories/Definitions
Abduction committed during the commission of a crime
Missing person is abducted while another criminal act was taking place. Upon entry into MPS, consider using optional Category Code “A” per CJIS Manual Section 7.5.1. crime At Risk See above for definition. Upon entry into MPS, consider using optional Category Code “R” per CJIS Manual Section 7.5.1.
Sexual Exploitation Suspected
Missing persons may be commercially sexually exploited. Upon entry into MPS, consider using optional Category Code “S” per CJIS Manual Section 7.5.1.
Prior Missing
Missing person who has been reported as missing previously. Upon entry into MPS, consider using optional Category Code “P” per CJIS Manual Section 7.5.1.
Urgent Cases
If marked and child is under 18 years of age, the FBI’s Child Abduction and Serial Killer Unit and NCMEC will be notified. Upon entry into MPS, consider using optional Category Code “N” per CJIS Manual Section 7.5.1.
Amber Alert
A partnership between law enforcement (the government), the media, and the public to distribute information for the singular purpose of safely locating a missing child under the age of 18, who is developmentally disabled or cognitively impaired, and is in imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death. Blue Alert See above for definition. Silver Alert A quick response alert system, like the concept of an AMBER Alert, designed to issue and coordinate public alerts following the determination that a party 65 years of age, or older, developmentally disabled, or cognitively impaired, is missing under certain specified requirements
Suspicious Circumstances:
Child or adult who is reported missing, and the circumstances give rise to believe that: foul play may be involved, the person is a danger to self or others (due to mental, physical, or emotional condition), or the disappearance is out of character for the individual and no known reasons can be determined. To be entered in MPS with Mandatory Type Code “X” per CJIS Manual Section 7.13.13. If under the age of 18, this information will be forwarded to the FBI’s Child Abduction and Serial Killer Unit and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A woman who is 8 months pregnant and lives with her parents is reported missing when she does not return home from a shopping trip and is last seen getting into a vehicle and leaving the parking lot with two men.
Unknown
Child or adult who is reported missing, but there are insufficient facts to determine the circumstances. To be entered in MPS with Mandatory Type Code “U” per CJIS Manual Section 7.13.13. A man is reported missing after he failed to return home in a reasonable amount of time after taking the family dog out for a walk.
AMBER Alert
Defined as America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response Alert, which is a nationally recognized program used by law enforcement to help find children under the most serious life-threatening conditions. This is a rapid notification to the public, which utilizes all available technology during the most critical period after a child/missing person has been abducted. The AMBER Alert is limited to specific criteria – See 4-42 AMBER Alert Procedures
Dental / Skeletal X-rays / and Medical Records All X-rays, dental charts, treatment notes, records, models, and photographs which are in the possession of a dentist, physician, surgeon, or medical facility per Penal Code Section 14212. DNA Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is used to identify an individual’s patterned chemical structure of genetic information by analyzing a biological specimen such as blood, tissue, or hair. It is commonly used to prove/disprove an individual’s commission of a crime. It is often used to determine the paternity of a child. DNA Data Base The Department of Justice is responsible for the DNA data base for all cases involving the report of an unidentified deceased person or a high-risk missing person. See PC §14250 for further definitions and details. Endangered Missing Advisory (EMA) An EMA can be issued in cases where the statutory criteria for an AMBER Alert are not met; however, an agency has reasons to believe the person is at risk or endangered and assistance in distributing information to help locate the individual(s) is desired. Evidence a Missing Person is “At Risk” “At Risk” per PC §14215(b) includes, but is not limited to, the person missing being the victim of a crime or foul play, in need of medical attention, has no pattern of running away or disappearing, the victim of parent/family abduction, or mentally impaired, including cognitively impaired or developmentally disabled. File Control Number (FCN) The FCN is a computer-generated number automatically assigned by the Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) to each accepted record. Usually noted on the reporting agency’s missing person report.
NCMEC aka "nick meck"
Technology-Based Notification Systems A previous computer system known as TRAK (Technology to Recover Abducted Kids) or Critical Reach, has been replaced by a new law enforcement alert software system called APBnet. This system is used to create flyers depicting the person’s photo and other related identification. Multiple copies can then be made and distributed to assist in locating a missing person or a wanted criminal suspect. Such systems are distributed at a nominal charge to law enforcement agencies by the Critical Reach Foundation. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) also offers the Lost Child Alert Technology Resource (LOCATER), which is also available to law enforcement at no cost.
https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/Digitization/108768NCJRS.pdf
4. Nonfamily Abductions
Establish clear-cut lines of authority and responsibility.
A child abducted by an unknown individual is considered to be in great danger.
The least common but most dreaded kind of missing child case is the nonfamily abduction. In these cases, a nonfamily member whose identity is unknown to the parents abducts the child. Be aware that a change in the status of the case may occur-a child who is originally reported as voluntarily missing may be abducted while on the street.
Intensive Investigation There are two considerations in addressing a nonfamily abduction case. The first and foremost is the safe recovery of the child. The second, equally vital, consideration is the building of the case against the abductor. Neither consideration should be overlooked. Time is a crucial factor in responding to nonfamily abduction cases.
THE CHILD SHOULD ALWAYS BE CONSIDERED ENDANGERED WHEN ABDUCTED BY AN UNKNOWN INDIVIDUAL.
Every appropriate resource available to the law-enforcement agency should be mobilized to deal with such cases. Set Up a Command Post As soon as the police suspect that the child has been abducted by a stranger, a commandd post (CP) should be established away from the child's home.
An officer should be stationed at the home and should maintain contact with the command post via radio communication. 'I.'he the officer will be able to inform the CP of the child's return home or of a ransom demand. If the child is found, the officer will be able to tell the family.
If the child is found hurt or dead, the officer should be discreet in informing the parents. Obviously it would be a disservice to family if they were to hear this information first from the media or from a loudspeaker in the patrol car in the front driveway.
The command post has the responsibility of ensuring that all bases are covered in the investigation.
All assignments pertaining to the case will originate from the command post, and all information generated will be processed through it.
Media information and press notices will originate there.
In short, the person in charge of the command post must have the authority to marshal necessary resources or have immediate access to, and support of, the police chief or sheriff.
Some cases demand the combined resources of more than one police agency. In these cases, agencies participating in the task force should designate a commander for the operation. This person shall be vested with authority to make assignments and coordinate the participation of all agencies involved.
Unless clear-cut lines of authority are established, the investigation could be threatened by chaos. In areas in which this is likely, law-enforcement and other public safety agencies should develop policies and procedures governing joint operations to be used when the need arises.
Staffing for the CP should consist of a team with a supervisor, investigative coordinator, search coordinator, media specialist, communications specialist, logistics specialist, and clerk/typist. Each of these persons has specific responsibilities, as indicated below:
Supervisor Directs all activities relating to the recovery of the child and the investigation of the crime; makes decisions on the level of resources necessary for the immediate reaction of the law-enforcement agency; functions as the liaison with other area and federal law-enforcement agencies on this case; and coordinates the release of information to the press and public.
Investigative Coordinator Has direct control of the law-enforcement personnel assigned to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build the case that may eventually have to stand the scrutiny of a criminal trial; reviews the supplemental reports submitted by investigators; and briefs the CP supervisor.
Search Coordinator Has responsibility for the activities undertaken to find the child, including liaison with the National Guard, volunteer search and rescue groups, and other law-enforcement and public safety agencies that may be used in the search; assigns search teams; briefs search teams about the procedures to use; and maintains the search map.
Media Specialist Has responsibility for rumor control and for securing active assistance from the public, including providing accurate information to the press and to the public about the status of the search and any elements of the case that may be made public; works closely with the CP supervisor; and serves as a liaison between law-enforcement and the public.
Communications Specialist Maintains radio and telephone communications among the CP, the search and the investigative teams, the officer assigned to the victim's home, and headquarters; and keeps a log of the activities.
Logistics Specialist Makes arrangements for obtaining necessary equipment and supplies. In prolonged operations this responsibility will include meals for searchers and cots for CP personnel needed to maintain around-the-clock presence.
Clerk/Typist Performs necessary clerical support functions, including the maintenance of a master case file in which a copy of the initial report and all supplemental reports are placed after being logged. The command post should control and coordinate all investigative activities. An activities log should be maintained and all activities carefully recorded. A situation board should be set up and a record kept of all searchers, including their assignments to search teams.
The CP should use a sector map with an acetate overlay, marking areas as search assignments are made and marking them again when the assignments are completed.
Areas covered by ground search teams should be marked differently from those searched by air units.
Mobilization of Non-Police Personnel The search coordinator is responsible for determining the number of non-police personnel needed to search for the child. Consideration should be given to the use of scout groups, neighbors, fire rescue units, and neighborhood watch patrols. The search coordinator makes the assignments for conducting the search and explains the procedures if the child is found. Searchers must be told that the :first concern is for the health and care of the child and that all information about the police investigation is confidential. Requests for information should be referred to the media specialist.
Ground Searches Ground searches must be performed in a thorough and careful manner. Unfortunately, the remains of many missing children have been recovered in areas that supposedly were "searched," often close to the point the child was last seen or near the child's home. The CP must log in everyone in the search 22 " area, including law-enforcement personnel, and check each searcher's identification against a photo identification: driver's license, military identification, or other similar source. Information in searcher logs should be maintained for possible background checks. To perform a ground search, the command post should divide the search area into grids. Each grid will be assigned to a "squad" or team to be searched. The squad leader should be a law-enforcement officer trained in ground search techniques. Team members should be spaced no more than ten yards apart. Each team member should wear a numbered "Day-GIo" vest or other visible means to identify him or her as a registered searcher. For a thorough search of a grid, the search must be calTied out in all four compass directions. First, line up the searchers along one boundary, the north edge, for example. The searchers then slowly search from north to south. Once that pass has been completed, line up the searchers along the south edge and search from south to north. The next pass will be from east to west and then from west to east. Remember, the ground looks different from each direction. Searchers should be told to look for anything that may be a clue-clothing parts, jewelry, body parts, bones, freshly disturbed earth (or in older cases, earth mounds or depressions). They should be instructed to call the squad leader if they find anything and NOT TO HANDLE ANY EVIDENCE. If anything that may be even tenuously related to the case is spotted, the line of searchers should stop IN PLACE. Once the evidence is processed, the line continues. Relatives should not be permitted to participate in the search but should be asked to remain at the command post. Remember that, just as in arson cases, the abductor often returns to assist with and possibly mislead the search. It is good practice to assign searchers to areas and not to allow them to pick their own. Two or more searchers should be assigned to look in buildings, caves, or other structures. When searching the same area again, the CP should assign different searchers. Such procedures minimize the the possibility of the abductor being the only person to search a hiding place. The investigator needs to "think like a kidnapper" and examine scenes and locales in the area where a child's body may be deposited. The search should be conducted so as to take into account the possibility that the child wandered away or was the victim of an accidental death. If the child is alive, the search may frighten him or her, and the child may attempt to avoid the searchers. Calling the child's name may alleviate fears. In at least one case, when a missing child was found, he was asked why he had not answered the calls of the searchers. His response was that he had been taught not to talk to strangers. When the SE: 'lrchers find the child, medical personnel should be called, emergency first ai<1 rendered, if necessary, and the child evacuated to the hospital. Steps must be taken, however, to protect the evidence that may be available around the child at the scene. Searchers not needed for first aid should cordon off the area, limiting access until the investigators arrive. A tremendous amount of discipline is required, as the human tendency is to crowd around the child and contaminate the area. The CP supervisor should assign a police representative to each search team in order to enforce disciplin, preserve forensic evidence, and protect the scene from contamination. Air Searches In some cases, the area to be searched is too large or too rugged for a ground search. In these cases, an air search using aerial photography may be useful. Because most law-enforcement agencies may not have the necessary equipment, they might check with the adjutant general of the state's National Guard to help make arrangements for the special infrared equipment necessary. The "prompting term" to facilitate these arrangements is "training mission!' Apparently National Guard and reserve units need to conduct a minimum number of hours of training, and a search provides a good opportunity for fulfilling this requirement. Photographs of a ten-mile diameter from the crime scene are needed. 23 During the search, preserve forensic evidence and maintain discipline. Infrared or heat-sensitive photography will disclose any body from which heat is being released, including rocks and dead animals as well as people. Water Searches Tidal waters and non-tidal waters require very different kinds of searches. The direction of the tide at the time of the disappearance will determine where the body may be located. If the tide is coming in, the body is likely to be found upstream and not downstream as may normally be expected. If the tide is going out, a body quite often will lodge itself on the bottom and dislodge itself when the tide comes back in. In tidal rivers and streams, the body will usually be found within a mile of the point that the body entered the water. In non-tidal rivers, the key areas to search are bends in the river, especially if time has passed and it is presumed that the body is now floating. Other places to search include places with much debris and sand or mud bars. The temperature of the water is a key factor in developing the water search strategy. When water is cold, the growth of bacteria within the body will be impeded, and the body will not float. In warmer water, bacterial growth is accelerated and the resulting gases cause the body to float. The bodies of victims who drown in the summer may be found within one to three days, in contrast to one to three months in the winter. Since water searches involve potential hazards to searching divers, priority should be given to the safety of the diver over the recovery of a body.
Note: For a more thorough discussion of search techniques, please consult your department's procedural guide or criminal investigation texts.
Patrol Activities The OP supervisor decides how best to allocate patrol forces assigned to the search during the period of time in which the OP is in operation usually the first 72-96 hours after the abduction. Patrol officers may be assigned to the search operation or to the investigation of the case. As law-enforcement officers, the patrol personnel are uniquely trained to question witnesses, conduct building searches, and report on these activities. The particular circumstances of the case will dictate the most efficient and effective use of the patrol officers assigned to assist with the missing child case. In most departments, it may be necessary to hold officers for a double shift or to call in off-duty officers and assign them to the missing child search and investigation. Patrol officers should be assigned to conduct door-to-door searches and ask, "Were you anywhere near this location?" and "What did you see?"-not "Did you see anything unusual?" The OP supervisor should coordinate these arrangements with the patrol division commander in accordance with departmental policies. Through the patrol division chain of command, the officers not working the case can be assigned to follow up leads in their regular patrol areas, in addition to being on the lookout for the child and the suspected abductor.
Photographs or posters should be distributed to patrol officers (see Appendix 1, page 39). It is extremely important that routine patrol be maintained in the area. Patrol officers assigned to the area from which the child was abducted should be instructed to look for any deviation from their area's normal condition. This would include running NOIC checks on automobiles that appear to be abandoned or that have been parked in the same spot for a long period of time. Any cars that appear suspicious should be thoroughly examined by the patrol officer.
All calls for service should be examined for a possible relationship to the missing child case. If the department has a crime analysis unit, it may be able to determine if the offense fits into any kind of crime pattern in the area. The patrol officers from the child's neighborhood and school should be asked about any activity that may be related to the abduction-for example, complaints of a "peeping tom:' an individual lurking around a park or playground, or a burglary with no apparent theft.
Investigators' Responsibilities Under the leadership of the investigative coordinator, the investigators assigned to the case should concentrate their efforts on finding the perpetrator. This entails interviewing witnesses; following up on leads; monitoring the parents' telephone line; crime scene processing; and using records and police intelligence sources as well as crime analysis to identify, locate, and apprehend the suspected abductor.
Resources the investigator should use are physician and pediatric records. Such evidence, which can be secured by subpoena, may be critical in the intensive investigation to provide a complete understanding of the circumstances surrounding the child's disappearance. The investigator should also examine the child abuse registry and other reports that may have been filed concerning the family of the missing child.
The officer should consider the possibility that another family member or someone else close to the missing child is responsible for the disappearance and possible death of the child. Unless the parents (or other family members and caretakers) can be positively eliminated as participants in the crime, they should be given polygraphs at the outset of the investigation. Conducted early on, this procedure may help provide valuable leads and lessen the chance of having to do it later when it could be perceived as accusatory.
Officers should go door to door, person to person, as in the cases of Johnny Gosch and Eugene Martin, paper boys from Des Moines, Iowa, who were abducted from their own neighborhoods. Simply to ask if anyone "saw . anything unusual" is not sufficient, however. The witnesses may believe that they have seen absolutely nothing that is unusual in the course of daily events. A search for witnesses should be conducted 24 hours, 48 hours, and 7 days after the occurrence in order to produce individuals whose daily activities may have brought them in contact with the scene.
Again, officers should know that the proper questions to ask are "Were you anywhere near this location at that time?" and "What did you see?"-not, "Did anything unusual happen?" Investigators should check with and inform hospitals, cab companies, and other jurisdictions. Recent crime reports from the involved jurisdiction need to be analyzed, as do reports from nearby areas. Any reported crime against a child should be examined for a relationship to the abduction being investigated. The investigators should look for similarities in size, age, physical appearance, and sex of the victims. Many cases in which children were abducted are not listed as abductions because the victims escape or were found murdered. In these cases the offense may be reported as a sexual molestation or homicide (not abductions). Individuals with a past history of child sexual molestation should be interviewed. Priority should be given to those whose victims' appearance and developmental stage most nearly corresponds to that of the missing child.
Claim of Home Birth Investigators should be alert to the possibility that a child abductor can present a baby to an agency issuing vital records, claim that the baby was born at home, and obtain a birth certificate for the baby-without any investigation of the legitimacy of the claim of home birth. In cases of infants abducted by nonfamily members, investigators may want to check with all the agencies in a given geographical area to determine if they have issued a birth certificate to such a child who matches the requisite age, gender, ethnic background, and so on. Note: Information about state organizations maintaining birth records is available from the National Center for Health Statistics in Washington, D.C. (202) 436-8500.
FBI Assistance Since the widely publicized Lindbergh kidnapping, the FBI can become involved in kidnapping cases. While~ the public has traditionally thought of FBI involvement only in cases of interstate transportation of the victim or in cases in which a ransom has been demanded, neither of these circumstances is necessary for FBI assistance.
The FBI Director, in a memorandum issued in February 1983 to all FBI field offices, states:
Consider a polygraph of the parents and other caretakers early in the investigation. A ransom demand is not necessary for FBI involvement.
Fully load information into the NCIC·MPF. In accord with existing instructions,
the following is set forth:
A. When reports are brought to your attention, without regard for the means of referral, of minors abducted or missing under circumstances indicating a possible abduction, unaccompanied by ransom demand or evidence of interstate transportation or travel,insure the following:
1. Advise FBI Headquarters immediately.
2. Furnish a teletype setting forth specific details bearing upon abduction or circumstances indicating a possible abduction, any ransom demand, interstate transportation a..'1d your action. Mere statements that the "local authorities advise no evidence of abduction exists" are not acceptable.
3. Determine if it is necessary to institute a preliminary inquiry immediately in order to ascertain the need for a full investigation.
4. Resolve questions pertaining to the abduction, seizure, confinement, inveiglement, decoy, kidnap, or carrying away by any means whatsoever, through the conduct of a preliminary inquiry in accord with existing Attorney General guidelines.
5. Note that no ransom demand is necessary.
6. Note that interstate travel can be assumed after 24 hours from the time the minor was abducted or missing under circumstances indicating a possible abduction.
B. Complete documentation is required as to the facts and circumstances which cause you to conduct or not to conduct a full investigation. Include any United States Attorney's opinion and the specific liaison effected with local authorities together with any requests that local authorities, citizens or family members may make and your action thereafter.
This memorandum is explicit in the requirements that the FBI field offices are expected to fulfill when informed of a possible abduction. Local law-enforcement agencies should always inform the FBI of the abduction report and collaborate on the investigation.
The Bureau has resources and technical capabilities not available in most local agencies that can be applied in the investigation of a suspected abduction. NCIC Reporting Completing the entries in the NCIC file should be done as soon as possible after an abduction. The file should be fully loaded with medical and dental information within the first two weeks. By establishing this as part of the investigative routine, the investigator will not need to arouse the fears of the parents if an unidentified body is found and the information is needed by the medical examiner.
Summary: Intensive Investigation of Nonfamily Abduction Cases The most dreaded kind of abduction is that in which a nonfamily member is the perpetrator. Fortunately, this kind of case appears to be unusual-but when it occurs, an immediate response and mobilization of law-enforcement resources are required.
IN EVERY NON-FAMILY ABDUCTION CASE, THE CHILD SHOULD BE CONSIDERED ENDANGERED.
Once it has been established that the child is missing due to a possible abduction, the law-enforcement agency should establish a command post (CP) that will direct the efforts to find the child and begin to investigate the case. The effort has two purposes: to find the child and insure his or her safety and to find the perpetrator and establish the criminal case against him or her.
The CP supervisor will have total control of both aspects of the case, will determine the level of effort necessary, and will provide liaison with other local 26 and federal law-enforcement agencies. The police should inform the FBI of the abduction and consider using its technical and investigative skills.
Sustained Investigations
The investigator should work with the family to develop a poster with the child's
pictures, physical description, date of abduction, and unique characteristics. A
telephone number that can be used for sightings should be listed as well as any
reward. (A suggested format is included on page 39.) This poster should be widely
distributed to law-enforcement agencies, missing children's groups, the National
Center for Missing and Exploited Children, truck stops, the media, and any other
organization that might give exposure to the poster.
the FBI should always be consulted. The Bureau has technical expertise that
could help in the investigation. For example, in longstanding cases, the FBI can
process photos to show aging and physical development.
As frustrating as it may be for the investigator, it is important to continue to
try to develop new leads and to follow up on any new information. The family of
the missing child deserves to know the fate of the child, even if that fate is death.
Law-enforcement agencies should refer searching parents to local support
groups for other services. Contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited
Children for a listing of support services in your state.
Follow-up and Close-out
Upon recovering a child abducted by a stranger, investigators should have two
primary concerns: the health and safety of the child, and the apprehension and
prosecution of the abductor. Nothing must take priority over the health and
well-being of the child. The investigative process should not further victimize him
or her. This requires some degree of sensitivity on the part of the investigator.
In any interview with the child, the investigator should include the presence
of the parents or a friend. The site for the interview should be one in which the
child can feel relaxed and undistracted. The length of time for any interviewing
session should be appropriate for the age and interest span of the child. Always
use extreme caution in deciding whether to videotape interviews with the
victim. If possible, avoid videotaping the initial interviews.
The investigator should find out what happened during the time the child
was missing and obtain as much information as possible about the abductor. The
child should be asked to provide detailed descriptions of the abductor(s), the
locations where the child was held, vehicles in which they traveled, and other
factors that link the child with the suspected abductor(s). This kind of investigation is required, even if the abductor is in custody. For example, offenses may have
occurred in multiple jurisdictions.
A physical examination should be conducted and any injuries documented for
later use as evidence. Laboratory samples indicating sexual abuse should also be
preserved for later use as evidence. The child's clothing should be kept and
examined for trace evidence.
In the unfortunate event that the abducted child is found dead, the investigation should proceed as in any homicide.
Nonfamily Abduction Case Investigation Checklist
o Set up command post away from the child's home.
Station officer at child's home.
Assign responsibilities.
Mobilize resources.
Search and rescue teams
Fire department
Other law-enforcement agencies in the region
27
Contact the National
Center for assistance
in generating leads:
1-800-843-5678.
Do not further
victimize the child
during the interview
process.
D Conduct search.
ill and log in searchers; issue search ID.
Assign teams for search.
Carefully conduct grid search of ground.
Air search in ten-mile diameter from home or scene of disappearance.
Contact National Guard for infrared aerial photography.
Maintain discipline among ground searchers.
o Locate and interview witnesses.
Conduct door-to-door searches (neighborhood canvass).
Conduct building searches.
o Maintain routine patrol in the area of the disappearance.
Look for any deviation from "normal!'
Conduct NCrC checks on suspicious vehicles.
Conduct NCrC checks on suspicious persons.
Analyze calls for service to determine possible relationship to abduction.
o Concentrate on finding perpetrator.
Interview witnesses.
Follow up on leads.
Monitor parents' telephone line.
Process crime scene.
Check child's medical records.
Check crime reports from nearby jurisdictions.
Contact hospitals and cab companies.
o Polygraph parents and other family members/guardians.
o Seek FBI assistance.
Crime scene profiling
Forensic analysis
VICAP
o Report to NeIC.
Fully load NCIC Missing Persons File within two weeks.
Be sure that child is listed as t<Endangered."
o Develop and distribute poster of missing child.
Use color, if possible.
Have two or three different pictures of the child.
Consider age enhancement after three years.
o Be vigilant in search for other child victim crimes with similar characteristics.
o Interview the child.
What offenses took place?
Where offenses took place (jurisdictions)?
Use caution in deciding whether to videotape the interviews with the child.
Do not further victimize the child.
o In recovery of a deceased child:
Determine cause of death.
Investigate as any :pQ~sible homicide.
Unknown Missing Cases
Not every case can be readily classified. Cases in which the facts are insufficient
to determine the cause of the child's disappearance are called unknown missing
28
cases. In many such cases, the only fact appal'ent is that there is a missing child.
WITHOUT ANY FACTS THAT INDICATE OTHERWISE, HOWEVER, THE
POLICE AGENCY SHOULD ASSUME THAT THE CH1LD IS ENDANGERED
AND ACT ACCORDINGLY.
Intensive Inv~stigation The investigative steps for unknown missing cases are
the same as those taken for the other three kinds of missing child cases. If any of
the unusual circumstances listed on pages 1-2 exist, establishing a command post
and conducting an extensive search should be normal law-enforcement practice.
The unknown missing case needs to be analyzed to determine if there are
other traceable pieces of evidence. For example, if the youth is of driving age, was
an automobile involved? If so, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be
run through the NCIC system. Did the youth have jewelry of value that may be
unique or traceable? Do not overlook any potential. lead.
The local police department should not establish an arbitrary waiting period
before taking action. The longer the police agency hesitates, the longer the child
is endangered and the greater the distance that the abductor, if there is one, can
put between himself and the investigating agency.
NCIC Reporting The police should complete the entries in the NCIC Missing
Persons File as soon as possible after a child is determined missing due to
unknown circumstances. The file should be fully loaded with medical and dental
information within the first two weeks. By establishing this as part of the
investigative routine, the investigator will not need to arouse the fears of the
parents if an unidentified body is found and the information is needed by the
medical examiner.
Sustained Investigation Until facts are developed that narrow the case, all
options should be repeatedly explored. Friends and relatives of the missing child
should be given instructions to tell the investigator if contacted by the missing
child or the child's abductor. Posters with the child's picture, description, and a
telephone number to call for sightings should be circulated. All medical and
dental information should be loaded into the NCIC computer so that if a body is
found or if the child is unable to give identity; a match can be made.
The investigator should consider the possibility that another family member
or someone close to the missing child is responsible for the disappearance and
possible death of the child. A polygraph examination of parents could lead to the
resolution of the case at the outset.
Follow-up and Close-Out When a child in an unknown missing case is recovered, the investigator must determine the cause of the disappearance. Once the
cause is determined-voluntary, parental kidnapping, non-family abduction, or
other, such as accidental injury-the investigator proceeds as usual.
If the child is dead, seriously injured, or otherwise unable to explain what
happened, the investigator will need to derive an explanation through investigative and forensic techniques. The investigating officer may want to ask the FBI to
develop a crime scene profile. To seek the FBI's assistance, please contact the local
FBI field office and ask for the field protlling coordinator.
Crime scene profiling is not an exact science, but through the presence of
clues and an understanding of human nature, the profiler can get a feel for the
scene and project scenarios for what may have happened. Further investigation is
necessary to validate their hypotheses
Policies and procedures are of limited value, however, unless an agency ensures every member receives direct instruction about the policy’s intent. Additionally, specific training and awareness about the overall issue of missing children will help each officer understand the critical role he or she plays in this important area of child protection. For example officers should be aware they might encounter several types of missing-child cases, each with their own unique response requirements. They include the types of cases noted below. A. Nonfamily abduction involves a child who has been wrongfully taken by a nonfamily perpetrator through the use of physical force, persuasion, or threat of bodily harm. B. Family abduction occurs when, in violation of a court order, a decree, or other legitimate custodial rights, a member of the child’s family, or someone acting on behalf of a family member, takes or fails to return a child. This is also referred to as parental kidnapping and custodial interference. C. A Runaway child, often a teenager, leaves home voluntarily for a variety of reasons. This would include any child 17 years of age or younger. D. The Thrownaway is a child whose caretaker makes no effort to recover the child after running away, who has been abandoned or deserted, or who has been asked to leave his or her home and not allowed to return. While not necessarily reported to authorities as missing, children in this category frequently come to the attention of law enforcement. E. The Lost, Injured, or Otherwise Missing child is defined as a child who has disappeared under unknown circumstances. The incident may range from the child wandering away and becoming lost to the child being abducted, wherein no one witnessed the act. These circumstances sometimes involve “foul play,” where those reporting the incident are attempting to cover-up a crime involving the child.
It should be noted not all missing-child incidents occurring each year in this country result in a direct law-enforcement response. Some incidents are resolved by parents, relatives, friends, or ii neighbors while others are over (i.e., the child escapes or returns home) before law enforcement is notified. This discussion should point out to the law-enforcement administrator that law enforcement is usually called upon to handle the most demanding missing-child reports — those cases requiring decisive action and a carefully planned response. When developing policy and procedures regarding missing-children cases, it is essential each response, regardless of what the initial indicators may be, should be governed by an assumption the child is in jeopardy until significant facts to the contrary are confirmed. When officers respond with the missing child’s safety as their foremost concern, they will be more likely to collect evidence or information that might otherwise be lost during the critical, early stages of an investigation.
B. The initial officer or first responder assigned to the report of a missing child shall 1. Respond promptly to the scene of the report activating patrol-vehicle mounted video camera if circumstances warrant. Even if the assigned officer has been provided with initial information such as the missing child’s description and other facts about the incident, it would be inappropriate to delay response to conduct a random search by doing things such as circling through parks, checking playgrounds, or stopping suspicious individuals. Unless in immediate response to the missing child’s safety, these activities can be handled by other patrol units. 2. Interview the parent(s) or person who made the initial report. The purpose of this interview is to gain an insight into the circumstances surrounding the missing episode and other information needed to conduct an initial assessment of the case. Note: Using a specifically designed missingperson report form to gather information will enable the first responder to more promptly reach an accurate risk assessment. One such form can be found in NCIC’s Missing Person File Information Kit, available through your agency Terminal Control Operator. All details should be thoroughly documented for more in-depth review later by investigative personnel who can compare statements made with investigative facts. 3. Obtain a detailed description of the missing child including photo(s) and videos. The collection of information about the missing child, including race, height, weight, hair and eye color, clothing, and other noteworthy features, should be done promptly and relayed to other officers who may be assisting in the investigation. Several recent photos and/or a video, if available, should be secured. Again, the use of a missing-person report form will expedite the collection of descriptive information. Photos should be the most accurate representation available of the missing child. If no photos are immediately believed to be available, several areas commonly forgotten would include cell phones with cameras as well as photos included on social-networking sites. 4. Confirm the child is in fact missing. First responders should never assume searches conducted by distraught parents or others have been performed in a thorough manner. Another check of the scene should be made and include places where children could be trapped, asleep, or hiding. Special attention should be paid to enclosures such as refrigerators, freezers, and the interior of parked vehicles where limited breathing air may place the child at even greater risk. In the case of older children, first responders should ask if parents have checked with the child’s friends or perhaps overlooked or forgotten something the child may have said that would explain the absence. Note: A search of the home should be conducted even if the missing child was last seen elsewhere. 7 5. Verify the child’s custody status. First responders should ascertain whether a dispute over the child’s custody might have played a role in the missing episode or might constitute a risk factor. Questions regarding whether the reporting party has legal custody, if the noncustodial parent has been contesting custody, or if the missing child expressed a desire to live with the other parent may help an officer gain important insight into the case. 6. Identify the circumstances of the missing episode. First responders need to ascertain whether the circumstances are such that a heightened level of response is warranted. If risk factors exist, as defined in Paragraph C of Section III, then the decision to employ additional response methods is clear. In other situations where the circumstances are not clear, officers should keep the missing child’s safety in mind and act accordingly. 7. Determine when, where, and by whom the missing child was last seen. This information is needed to determine factors such as abduction time frame, windows of opportunity, and verification of previously received information. Interview family members, friends/associates of the child, and friends of the family to determine when each last saw the child, what they think happened to the child, and if the child had complained about being approached by anyone. Comparison of information gathered from the reporting party, witness, and other sources may prove vital to case direction. 8. Interview the individual(s) who last had contact with the missing child. Effective questioning of those individuals who last saw or spoke with a missing child is crucial in the case-assessment process. While seeking information about the child’s appearance, demeanor, and actions, officers should also be alert to any contradictions made or evasiveness demonstrated by the witness, especially if these statements cannot be readily corroborated. Thorough documentation will allow investigative personnel to later compare those statements with the facts of the case as they are uncovered. 9. Identify the missing child’s zone of safety for his or her age and developmental stage. Responding officers should attempt to determine how far a missing child could travel from the location where last seen before he or she would most likely be at risk of injury or exploitation. This perimeter should, under many circumstances, define the first search zone. 10. Make an initial assessment of the type of incident. By employing all available assessment tools (i.e., completion of standardized forms; interviews with parents, other family members, and friends; statements of witnesses; and search of scene) an officer should be able to reach a preliminary determination regarding the type of case and the need for additional resources. Note: Officers must be cautious in “labeling” or classifying a missing-child case, since the classification process will impact the way in which initial information or evidence is gathered. Even if first indications suggest a “less urgent” incident, officers should consider all possibilities until the case category is clearly determined. 8 11. Obtain a description of the suspected abductor(s) and other pertinent information. Officers need to immediately record witness information, not only for general investigative use but also before witnesses forget or speak to others who may confuse or make suggestions about what was actually observed. If the abduction scene involves a business or other public place, officers may be able to supplement witness information with video from security cameras that might provide crucial information about the suspect, vehicles, and circumstances. In the case of a suspected family abduction, the reporting party may have photos of the abductor or other valuable information. 12. Determine the correct NCIC Missing Person File category and ensure notification is promptly transmitted. There are 5 categories within the Missing Person File applying to children. They are disability, endangered, involuntary, juvenile, and catastrophe. Simply because the child is younger than 18 does not require the juvenile category be used. The circumstances should govern category selection. 13. Provide detailed descriptive information to communications unit for broadcast updates. As information becomes available regarding the missing child’s physical appearance, circumstances of the case, or description of the potential abductor, the initial officer should ensure other officers and agencies are provided with up-to-date facts. 14. Identify and separately interview everyone at the scene. The name, address, home and work phone numbers of everyone present at the scene, along with his or her relationship to the missing child, should be recorded. If possible, include them in photos and/or videos of the incident scene. By interviewing each person privately, officers may be able to uncover information instrumental in resolution of the case. 15. Conduct an immediate, thorough search of the scene. With the assistance of additional personnel, a systematic, thorough search of the incident scene should be conducted. If appropriate, officers should obtain written permission to search houses, apartments, outbuildings, vehicles, and other property that might hold information about the child’s location. Officers are again reminded to conduct a thorough, immediate search of the child’s home and property — even if the child was last seen at another location. Evaluate the contents and appearance of the child’s room/residence. When possible officers should also search a missing child’s school locker. 16. Seal/protect scene, area of child’s home, and areas of interest as potential crime scenes. First responders must take control of the immediate area where the incident occurred and establish an appropriate perimeter to avoid destruction of vital evidence. Extend search to surrounding areas and vehicles including those that are abandoned and other places of concealment such as abandoned appliances, pools, wells, sheds, or other areas considered “attractive nuisances.” In addition to external crime scenes, the missing child’s home, and particularly his or her bedroom, 9 should be secured and protected until evidence and identification material such as hair, fingerprints, and bite marks are collected. 17. Inquire if the child has access to the Internet, cell phone, and/or other communications device. Before making an initial decision the child has run away, an officer should determine if the child may have left to meet someone he or she encountered while online. Since some offenders are known to use the Internet to identify vulnerable children, what appears at first to be a runaway case, may, in fact, be a child abducted or enticed to leave by someone the child first met online. Even if a child willingly decides to leave home to join someone first met online, the child should be considered at risk. Additionally, since many children have their own cell phones/other electronic communications devices and may have them while missing, an officer should note these devices during the informationgathering process. 18. Prepare necessary reports and complete appropriate forms. Information gathered by the first responding officer(s) may be instrumental in the eventual case resolution. To record this important information, officers should prepare a chronological account of their involvement and actions in the case from time of assignment to the point of dismissal. Reports should include everything, not just events seeming to have a direct bearing on the case. C. The supervisor assigned to the report of a missing child shall 1. Obtain a briefing and written reports from the first responder(s) and other agency personnel at the scene. This briefing allows the supervisor to determine the scope and complexity of the case and develop an appropriate response. The briefing should be conducted away from family, friends, or any other individuals who may be present. Doing so will allow officers to speak freely about case circumstances and pass along initial impressions and opinions that might be misconstrued by others. 2. Determine if additional personnel and resources are needed to assist in the investigation. Depending on the situation, a supervisor may determine additional personnel, including specialized units, should be called to the scene or otherwise assist in the investigation. Certain cases may also require the supervisor to activate existing interagency response protocols as established by mutual-aid agreements or memorandums of understanding. Confirm all required resources, equipment, and assistance necessary to conduct an efficient investigation have been requested and expedite their availability. Be available to make any decisions or determinations as circumstances develop. Contact NCMEC to enlist their resources. 3. Consider activation of the AMBER Alert system and/or other immediate community notification methods. If circumstances indicate the chances for the child’s safe recovery would be increased by immediate public awareness, a supervisor should promptly activate such efforts. 10 4. Establish a command post. A command post is a field headquarters/office for scene management. It is used as a center for organizing personnel, launching and monitoring search and rescue operations, and directing investigative efforts as well as a focal point for deciding the division of investigative labor on-site, administering on-site change of command, responding to investigative inquires, and gathering intelligence. As a general rule the command post should be close enough to the center of activity to facilitate control and coordination, but sufficiently isolated to allow a free exchange of ideas among responders. Establish a command post away from the child’s residence. 5. Organize and coordinate search efforts. Systematic searches are common features of missing-child investigations. A supervisor should appoint a search operation coordinator who can oversee the search effort while the supervisor remains available to manage the entire investigation. 6. Ensure all required notifications have been made. Because dissemination of information is an integral part of the search for a missing child, the supervisor should ensure all officers, other departments and agencies, and all investigative networks are supplied with accurate details. Prepare a flier/bulletin with the child/abductor’s photo and description. Distribute in appropriate geographic regions. Note: NCMEC is able to assist with this step. 7. Establish a liaison with the victim family. Families of a missing child will experience extreme stress. Supervisors should establish a liaison with the victim family who can explain what investigative actions are being employed and what they can do to assist in the search. In addition the liaison can help the family work with the media. 8. Confirm all agency policies and procedures are observed. In addition to providing the innovative direction required during a missing-child investigation, a supervisor must also ensure adherence to the rules and regulations of their professional law-enforcement organization. Established policies and procedures, especially those related to missing children, should be regularly reviewed to ensure compliance. 9. Manage media relations. Many missing-child investigations, especially those involving large-scale search efforts, are likely to draw media attention. Supervisors should manage media presence in a way to complement rather than conflict with the investigation.
The investigator assigned to the report of a missing child shall 1. Obtain a briefing from agency personnel at the scene. This briefing should be conducted prior to interviews with family members of the missing child or witnesses who may have been identified during the initial stage of the case. Its objective is to assist the investigator in formulating an effective interview strategy. 11 2. Verify the accuracy of all descriptive information. The verification process should include all details developed during the preliminary investigation. During the interview process the investigator should be alert to facts or statements in conflict with those gathered by the first responder. 3. Initiate a neighborhood investigation. A thorough canvass of the neighborhood should be conducted without delay. The objective is to identify and interview all people within the abduction zone who may be able to provide information related to the incident. According to a key child-homicide study, unknowing witnesses are those who see some aspect of a crime but at the time do not realize they are witnessing part of a crime or potential abduction. It was found there were unknowing witnesses in 32.9% of those cases studied. This indicates a neighborhood or area canvass would be of great importance in generating investigative leads.1 Investigators should use a standardized set of questions during the canvass to ensure completeness and uniformity of information and facilitate establishment of a database to track leads. A record should also be made of all vehicles parked within the neighborhood and any other conditions that may have future investigative value. Access should also be made to Sex Offender Registries to determine if individuals designated as sex offenders reside, work, or are otherwise associated with the area. 4. Obtain a brief history of recent family dynamics. Information about family dynamics, obtained from family members, neighbors, teachers, classmates, employers, coworkers, friends, and witnesses, can offer valuable insights into what may have happened to the missing child and where he or she may be found. Records of family contact maintained by law-enforcement agencies, social-service departments, schools, and other organizations should also be obtained and evaluated. 5. Explore the basis for any conflicting information. When preliminary investigative steps have been taken, investigators should “compare notes” with the first responder, fellow investigators, and other agency personnel to identify and work through conflicting information. This collaborative evaluation will provide the investigative staff with a solid foundation upon which to structure future case directions. Correct and investigate the reasons for any conflicting information. 6. Complete all remaining key investigative and coordination steps. Key investigative steps include, when applicable, collecting articles of the child’s clothing for scent-tracking purposes; reviewing and evaluating all available information and evidence collected; securing the child’s last medical and dental records; contacting landfill management and requesting delay or segregation of garbage and dumping containers from key investigative areas; developing and executing an investigative plan; conducting a criminal-history background check on all principal suspects, witnesses, and participants in the investigation; establishing a phone
hotline for receipt of tips and leads; and considering establishment of an e-mail address or other methods of electronically receiving leads. Key coordination steps include ensuring details of the case have been reported to NCMEC and preparing and updating bulletins for local lawenforcement agencies, the missing-children clearinghouse, FBI, and other appropriate agencies. 7. Implement effective case management. An information-management system is an essential part of the overall investigative process. Depending on the resources available, it is best to utilize a computerized system to record, index, cross-reference, and retrieve the facts amassed during an investigation. Note: NCMEC can provide software designed for effective case management. 8. Evaluate the need for additional resources and specialized services. The complexity of many missing-child incidents may necessitate the use of resources and services both from within the agency and other organizations as well. Investigators should be aware of the input obtainable from resources such as the FBI; NCIC; missing-children clearinghouses; and NCMEC — in particular Team Adam, which is a rapid-response team of experienced, retired law-enforcement investigators. 9. Update descriptive information. If it appears the case will not be promptly resolved, investigators should ensure the descriptive record, especially the information entered into the NCIC Missing Person File, is updated to include dental characteristics, scars, marks, tattoos, and fingerprints along with additional articles of clothing, jewelry, or unique possessions. 10. Monitor media relations. While information gained through effective media relations is often of significant value in a missing-child case, investigators should review all notices prior to release to ensure investigative objectives are not unintentionally compromised. E. An officer assigned to the report of an unidentified person, whether living or deceased, who appears to be a child, shall 1. Obtain a complete description. Officers who are assigned to this task should use standardized information-gathering forms such as the NCIC Unidentified Person File Worksheet and data-collection guide. This information should be gathered in cooperation with the medical examiner or coroner. In cases involving skeletal remains, consideration should be given to consulting with a Forensic Anthropologist and Forensic Odontologist to ensure all pertinent and accurate information has been gathered. NCMEC’s Forensic Services Unit can provide assistance in this area. 2. Enter the unidentified child’s description into the NCIC Unidentified Person File. This file is compared daily with the contents of the NCIC Missing Person File. Entries with common characteristics are flagged and 13 both agencies are informed. Agencies should expect to receive this information/response overnight. 3. Use all available resources to aid in identification of the child. NCMEC’s Forensic Services Unit; NamUs (National Missing and Unidentified Persons System); missing-children clearinghouses; and other professionals, such as medical examiners, may be of assistance in the identification. 4. Cancel all notifications after identification is confirmed
This is clipped from the sources shown in the links. It is posted again for informational and reference purposes. It is posted for the sake of the people who are asking what law enforcement has done to find a missing child. It is posted
for the people still asking if:
She may have died in the car
died from delayed drowning
or heat exhaustion in a hot car
If she's buried under the plants
If she is in the well
in the septic tank
if she is under the house
In the abandoned cars
The sheds
if there was an accident in the house
if they are telling the truth about the timelines
if they have checked the out buildings,
the neighbors,
the property surrounding the home
did they use tracking dogs
did they use cadaver dogs
did she have her shots for school,
were there any medical records
dental records
I bet they failed the drug screens
I bet they are lying about passing the polygraph tests
DID THEY MISS ANYTHING????................
well yes they could have missed something but their protocol is pretty comprehensive so ....nuff said.
