What should be done after taking a person into custody during an emergency situation?

After taking a person into custody during an emergency situation, completing and signing a statement of emergency detention is crucial. This documentation serves multiple purposes: it provides a formal record of the circumstances that led to the detention, ensures that the rights of the detained individual are recognized and documented, and establishes the legal basis for the action taken by law enforcement. This statement is a key component in maintaining accountability and protecting the rights of the individual, as it outlines the reasons for the emergency detention and confirms that proper procedures were followed.

In contrast, conflict resolution protocols are typically initiated after the initial response—focusing more on de-escalating situations rather than documentation. Conducting a full psychological evaluation is necessary in certain contexts, but it typically follows the preliminary steps of custody and documentation. Lastly, contacting family members can be beneficial but is not a primary step in the immediate aftermath of taking someone into custody, especially when ensuring the legal and procedural aspects are addressed first.