Q: How often does it occur?

It depends on whom you ask.  After examining most studies conducted between the years 1988 and 1997, I have concluded that the most credible study can be found in the Annals of Emergency Medicine, Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians, December 1998, Vol. 32, No.6 written by H Range Hutson, MD and Deirdre Anglin, MD, et.al.

These researchers combed through 437 officer-involved shooting cases involving the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department between the years 1987 to 1997. Within their examinations, they found that out of those shootings, 46 (11%) could be classified as suicide by cop.  Further, their conclusion recognizes suicide by cop as "...an actual form of suicide." 

Q:  Where is it most likely to happen?

Primarily in urban communities where there is a larger population and higher potential for contact.

Q:  Do more men than women complete suicide by cop?

Yes, but keep in mind that it is only because men are more likely to use guns than are women.

Q:  Why do people choose this method of suicide?

In my interviews with survivors, they have indicated that it is because they could not pull the trigger themselves and they knew, when forced with the circumstances, the police officer would respond with deadly force.

Q:  What do you recommend for those who have lost someone to a suicide by cop incident?

First, seek out a support group.  Talking about your loss with others who understand can be very helpful.  Secondly, do not blame the officer for a choice that your loved one made.  This officer has also become a victim of your loved ones actions.  Encourage understanding rather than anger.  Both you and the officer are undergoing a tremendous life-changing event.

Professional therapy is also a good idea.  Yes, grief is a natural part of our life experience; however grieving the loss of a loved one that is sudden, unexpected, and violent brings additional issues.  Suicide brings issues such as guilt, blame, confusion, and more.  A professional therapist can help you sort through these issues in a way that is healthy and understandable.

Q:  Should the police officer involved and the surviving loved ones of the decedent meet?

For a multitude of reasons, this may be difficult.  First, the officer may have Departmental restrictions pending the investigation.  Meeting loved ones may be extremely difficult for the officer involved in that survivors may be looking for an opportunity to vent or blame that officer for the choice your loved one made.  You can, however, contact the Department and ask them to forward a message.  Keep in mind that the officer's supervisor may screen this message to make sure that no further emotional harm come to that officer.

I have interviewed some who did meet and found that the meeting, while intense, was beneficial for all concerned.  In these cases, I found that survivors merely wanted to express their sorrow and understanding, knowing the officer had no other choice in the matter.  The officers, in turn, were greatly appreciative of survivors concerns and it helped them toward their own emotional recovery.

Q:  Are you an expert on the subject of suicide by cop?

Although I am a recognized subject matter expert, I believe that Dr. Barry Perrou merits this distinction as well. He is a forensic psychologist and former commander of the LA County Sheriff's Hostage Negotiations Unit with over 30 years of experience in generalized officer-involved shootings.  He can be reached via the following information:

Dr. Barry Perrou
2029 Verdugo Boulevard, #137
Montrose, CA 91020
818-952-9800
drbfp@msn.com

Q:  How do I order a copy of this booklet?

"Suicide By Cop:  Victims from BOTH sides of the badge" can be ordered by clicking here.  Please note that we are only taking pre-orders for the publication date which will be January 1, 2004.