Police Chaplain (Victim Advocate) Part Two

Father Mulcahy MASH

I was called to a ‘death scene’ some months ago. I have done this many times for area departments. Each situation is unique but all are tragic and life altering. And my role is always the same. I am there as a victim advocate first and primarily for those present at the scene. There are typically witnesses, family members and neighbors, most in full blown shock. So it’s imperative that I maintain a presence that is at once calming and normative. I can help the victims with information from the first responders on scene without interfering with their work. In some cases there might also be a focus on the trauma and stress for the officers and first responders as well. More on this matter later. In this case a young student died overnight from a fentanyl overdose that he got through the mail! His parents found him in the morning and were obviously devastated. It was a busy scene especially given that it was a ‘CSI’ focused case. This means that the officers and technicians were super busy and needing to ensure that the scene was untouched. So it meant keeping upset family members engaged with me in caring interactions about their trauma. This is my contribution so that the professional team can focus on their investigation. I’ve been in this situation many times before. The role is not about religion, despite the chaplain title on my jacket. And in this case it became obvious. This family was from Asia and shared no information about any spiritual or faith connections at all. In these cases if the family desires to address spiritual matters I am all ears. I was there as a ‘victim advocate’ offering what comfort I could and to hear their grief and pain and anything practical I could offer. ‘Can I notify anyone for you?’ If it feels right ask them to tell you about him. With his name and what was he studying I am able to listen as the share. And importantly it is a service to the first responder professionals. Most of them are mothers and fathers and parents as well. It’s about compassion for all those present who are suffering. Of course I pray when asked and with discretion. And this is when I’m grateful for my education and training in Christian ministry. It’s about the victims, all of them present.