Effective Date: 2023-10-16
To ensure the medical needs of suspects in custody are addressed, particularly after the use of force, and to maintain a record of medical treatment.
After you have a suspect in custody, if they require medical attention, follow these steps:
Offer medical treatment (commonly referred to as "95").
Transport the suspect to Pillbox Medical Center.
If there are EMS or doctors available at Pillbox, the suspect should be treated by them.
If no medical personnel are present at Pillbox, the suspect should be examined by Nancy or local doctors.
Ensure that all reports involving a suspect receiving medical treatment include a note stating, "Suspect was taken to Pillbox Medical and received medical treatment."
In cases where a suspect refuses medical treatment, the following steps should be taken:
The suspect must still be transported to Pillbox.
If medical staff are present, they must assess the suspect's condition.
If the suspect continues to refuse medical care, medical staff will provide an "Against Medical Advice" (AMA) statement, which must be included in your report.
If no medical professionals are available at Pillbox, follow these additional steps:
Use the #pd-and-ems-chat-ic Channel on Discord.
Request medical assistance if available.
Wait for a reasonable period (5-10 minutes) for a response.
While waiting, begin working on your report to expedite the process.
If EMS responds and becomes available, refer back to #2.
If no EMS is accessible, document the following in your report:
Copy the Discord message requesting medical assistance.
Include a picture of the suspect at Pillbox.
Record the time when EMS was requested and the time you left Pillbox.
This procedure ensures that no one can claim that medical treatment was not offered, which could lead to legal issues such as civil lawsuits. Even when a suspect refuses medical care, documenting your actions and any EMS availability is crucial for liability protection.
Providing medical treatment to suspects in custody, whether they cooperate or refuse, is essential for their well-being and the protection of law enforcement from potential legal issues. This procedure helps maintain a clear record of medical treatment provided to suspects.