Personal effects and property (i.e. wallet, ID, watch, clothing etc.) belonging to your loved one may be considered evidence and seized by Investigators. Other items may not be considered evidence and may be returned to the next of kin. Ask about what can and cannot be returned to you.

The Medical Examiner may choose to authorize disposal of soiled/damaged clothing. If you have questions or concerns with this discuss it with the Medical Examiner’s Investigator.

Reporters may contact you asking for information. It is important for you to know that you can choose to speak with them or choose not to. Speaking with the media can create an opportunity for you to provide the human and personal story of your loved one. Only you can decide what is right for you and your family. If you are at all unsure of what you should or should not say, discuss it with the investigators.

SAYING NO – I DO NOT WANT TO SPEAK WITH THE MEDIA

> “No” is a full sentence – say no politely and firmly.

> You do not have to offer a reason why you are saying no or defend your choice; simply say no, and then politely end the conversation.

> You May Wish To:

• Advise the media you are asking for privacy for your family to grieve.

• Screen your telephone calls. Answer only those you wish. You are not obligated to return voice messages from the media.

• Have a friend or relative answer the door for you. They can then screen visitors on your behalf.

• Advise your family and friends of your decision not to speak to the media and tell them how you want them to behave should the media approach them.

SAYING YES – I WILL SPEAK WITH THE MEDIA.

> Decide who you want to speak to (i.e. all reporters, one specific news outlet, or one specific reporter). It is your choice to make.

> You may wish to provide a photo of your choosing instead of the media getting one from social media feeds or an outside source.

> You can communicate your message many ways for example in a personal interview, a written statement, or having a spokesperson provide it. A statement written down will give you the most control over what you want to say.

> It is important for there to be one primary contact person for your family. This ensures clear and accurate communication can occur.

> The media may go out and talk to witnesses, neighbours or persons who claim to have known your loved one. Unfortunately, false information may be reported. If this occurs, you may contact (phone call or email) the reporter, editor or producer and let them know of the error. While they may choose not to make a public correction – it does allow them to ensure the information is correct for future articles, stories etc.

> You also may request special considerations, e.g. not filming children, family or your face at the funeral or other events.

> The media do have an obligation to not publish information that would interfere with legal proceedings, but it may be a good idea to avoid speaking to the media while you are still in a state of shock or denial – which are very normal reactions to murder.