What documentation is required for entering a missing person aged 21 or over in the Missing Person File?

When entering a missing person aged 21 or over in the Missing Person File, it is necessary to have signed documentation that supports the individual's missing status. This documentation serves as official confirmation and validation of the circumstances surrounding the person’s disappearance, ensuring that proper procedures are followed for accurate record-keeping and investigation.

Having this signed documentation is critical because it provides law enforcement with concrete evidence of the situation, allowing them to take appropriate action while also safeguarding the integrity of the missing person report. Such documentation may include details from family members or close associates that outline the reasons for concern about the individual’s whereabouts, which is essential for initiating a full investigation.

Other options, while they may involve aspects of reporting or verification, do not meet the requirements laid out for properly entering someone into the Missing Person File. For instance, relying solely on a verbal report lacks the necessary formalities and leaves room for ambiguity, which could hinder the efficiency of law enforcement responses. Similarly, the need for approval from a judge or the requirement of a witness statement from a family member do not align with the standard protocols established for reporting missing persons over the age of 21.