Borough of Gibbsboro, NJ Article IX Investigatory Procedures

§ 47-88 Command at scene.

At the scene of any crime, accident or other police incident, the ranking officer present shall assume command and direction of police personnel to assure the most orderly and efficient accomplishment of the police task. When two or more officers of the same rank are present and one of these is assigned to the investigative detail that will follow up the investigation, that ranking officer will be in charge. This provision coordinates the efforts of the several subordinate members who may be assigned to the incident: therefore, it is incumbent upon the ranking officer assuming such control to become acquainted with the facts and ensure that appropriate action is being taken or is initiated.

§ 47-89 Responsibilities upon arrival at crime scene.

The first member to arrive at the scene of a crime or other police incident is responsible for the following actions as they may apply to the situation:

A. Summoning medical assistance and administering first aid as required to prevent further injury or loss of life.

B. Arrest of violator(s).

C. Security of the scene.

D. Conducting a preliminary investigation.

§ 47-90 Responsibilities of members assigned to crime scene.

The members officially assigned to perform the preliminary or other investigation of an alleged crime or other incidents are responsible for the duties of § 47-89 and the completion of the preliminary or other investigation as directed. This shall include securing statements and other information which will aid in the successful completion of the investigation, the locating, collecting and preserving of physical evidence and the identifying, locating and apprehending of the offender.

§ 47-91 Identification as police officers.

Except when impractical or where the identify is obvious, officers shall identify themselves by displaying the official badge or identification card before taking police action.

§ 47-92 Release of information at crime scene.

Unauthorized persons, including members of the press, shall be excluded from crime scenes. Information shall be given to the press by the Chief of Police or members designated by him.

§ 47-93 Handling of confidential information.

A. Members and employees shall not reveal any confidential business of the Department. They shall not impart confidential information to anyone except those for whom it is intended or as directed by their commanding officer.

B. Members shall not make known to any person any Department order which they may receive, unless so required by the nature of the order.

C. Contents of any Department record or report filed in the Police Department shall not be exhibited or divulged to any person other than a duly authorized police officer, except on approval of the Chief of Police or under due process of law or as permitted under Department regulations.

§ 47-94 Interference with legal process.

A. Members and employees shall not interfere with the proper administration of criminal justice.

B. Members and employees shall neither attempt to interrupt the legal process, except where a manifest injustice might otherwise occur, nor participate in or be concerned with any activity which might interfere with the process of law.

C. Members and employees shall not attempt to have any traffic summons or notice to appear reduced, voided or stricken from the calendar. Any member or employee having knowledge of such action and failing to inform his superior officer thereof shall be subject to disciplinary action.