Who should take charge of the incident in a lost persons search due to potential criminal elements?

In a scenario involving a lost person search that may involve potential criminal elements, the local law enforcement agency should take charge of the incident. This is because law enforcement is specifically trained and equipped to handle situations with possible criminal activity, ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. Their role includes assessing the risk factors associated with the lost person's circumstances and coordinating any necessary investigations into criminal behavior.

The presence of potential criminal elements means that the situation may exceed the standard search and rescue operations, requiring law enforcement's authority and expertise. Their involvement is crucial not only for the safety of the search teams but also for legal implications surrounding the investigation. Law enforcement is responsible for securing the scene and gathering evidence, which goes beyond the SAR team's usual responsibilities.

Other stakeholders, like the SAR team leader or the designated SAR coordinator, would typically assist law enforcement and follow their directives in a situation like this. The family's involvement, while important emotionally and logistically, does not encompass the necessity for operational control that law enforcement must provide in the face of potential criminal activity.