Upon custodial death of an inmate, whom should the department notify besides the next of kin and medical examiner?

When an inmate dies while in custody, it is essential for the department to maintain transparency and uphold its duty to the public. Notifying the media is an important component of this responsibility. The media serves as a conduit for information between the agency and the public, ensuring that the community remains informed about significant incidents, especially those that involve the death of an inmate.

The media can help disseminate information regarding the circumstances of the death, the actions being taken by the department, and any investigations that may follow. This practice can bolster public confidence in the department's accountability and integrity. Transparency in such cases is critical; it helps to prevent the spread of rumors or misinformation that could arise in the absence of reliable reporting.

Other choices, such as notifying a lawyer, psychologist, or other inmates, may not be as pertinent in this scenario. While legal and psychological support may be necessary in certain contexts, the priority after a custodial death primarily lies in informing the next of kin and establishing openness with the public through media notification. The focus is on ensuring that the public is aware of the incident and the subsequent procedures being followed by the department.