ACPO letter to Mail on Sunday regarding assisted suicide

Dear Sir or Madam,

The police service is responsible for investigating cases of encouraging or assisting suicide involving British nationals whether it takes place in the UK or abroad. Whenever we receive information or intelligence about such a case, these investigations are pursued.

It is therefore entirely misleading to suggest that ACPO is advising police officers not to investigate deaths abroad (“Assisted suicide 'is legalised' by police: Secret new guidelines from senior officers mean deaths are not investigated”, 24 March). The very purpose of such guidance is to assist investigation, by outlining specific considerations for investigators including the legal context and the need to engage with the CPS at earliest stages of an encouraged or assisted suicide inquiry.

This is a complex area of investigation and over-simplifying the issues is unhelpful.

Association of Chief Police Officers lead on homicide
Chief Constable David Crompton

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk