SHARE
Issues raised during OPI's review of the investigation of deaths associated with police contact are identified in this paper.
When a citizen dies following action or inaction by the State, it is imperative that such action be subject to rigorous scrutiny and public accountability. This is to ensure that the duties and responsibilities of the State have been properly discharged, and that any issues related to an incident resulting in death are addressed. Where the action or inaction has been found to be unjustified, those responsible must be held to account.
Investigations of deaths associated with police contact require the highest levels of scrutiny, accountability and transparency. They must also have regard to the obligations imposed by the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006.
OPI’s review of Victoria Police policy and processes for investigating police-related deaths is one of the ways OPI is working to ensure that the Victorian community can have confidence in the way police discharge their responsibilities on behalf of us all.
This paper also provides an overview of the review process, including OPI’s progress to date. A final report is expected to be tabled in the Victorian Parliament in 2011.
