What happens if a suicidal person is reported missing to the police?

Question

What happens if a suicidal person with a history of serious mental illness, history of suicide attempts, is known to the police and ambulance for suicide attempts, is reported missing to the police ? What would happen ... What would be the police's procedure...

Answer 1

In my city the report is taken by a beat officer. The officer searches the house (most are found in and around the home). If the missing is truly suicidal or at risk in anyway missing persons detectives are notified. They do the usual thing you see on TV like check hospitals, clinics, do deep interviews with the family and friends to see what the missing's habits are. etc.

The missing's description is broadcast over all police bands every half hour.

By the next morning the missing' photos is distributed to all police via an 8x10 handout.

Officers check back with the family on an on going basis and often research the area and any other areas that the missing might have gone to.

When found it is up to the officer/detective interviewing if the person needs a mental evaluation. The evaluation is done at a mental health facility. They can treat or hold up to 24 hours. If they feel there is more needed the mental health people go to a judge for a involuntary admission (very rare, in fact the mental health people usually let them go in an hour if they set up a future shrink appointment..

Answer 2

It's called mental health law and involuntary commitment. Google those phrases.

Answer 3

idk