Investigation

Investigation, as defined by ACYF, is the initial process of screening and recording information to determine the risk to children, and the need for protection. The investigation is the first step in the CPS process. It is the point where reports are received regarding children who are suspected of being abused or neglected. The investigation requires information be gathered that determines the validity of the report, addresses the concerns and fears of the reporter, and check records to see if the family reported is already known to DES or other agencies in the community.

All abuse and neglect calls are taken through a centralized hotline. The hotline operator prioritizes the calls and distributes reports to local offices. The priority classification system has been developed to aid in the response time according to the severity of the allegation of abuse or neglect. Currently, the department has four major priority classifications. They are:

· High Risk- A life-threatening and/or emergency situation that requires an immediate response, no later than two hours from the time of the report. High-risk cases include the death of a child, severe physical abuse, life-threatening medical neglect, and a child who has been left alone who is in immediate danger.

· Moderate Risk- a dangerous but not life-threatening situation that requires a response within 48 hours. Moderate risk calls include serious, chronic physical abuse, substance exposed newborns, serious physical or medical neglect, and severe or serious sexual abuse.

· Low Risk- These calls report substandard childcare that is damaging but not dangerous or life threatening. A prompt response is required within 72 hours or three working days. These calls may include moderate physical abuse, moderate physical/medical neglect, moderate sexual abuse, or inadequate supervision of a child eight years of age or under.

· Potential Risk – Calls that report substandard care that can become damaging are classified as potential risk. A prompt response is required within one working week. These calls include minor abuse and neglect, with injuries to the child. Also, a CPS worker may identify stress factors within the family that places a child at risk.

Calls are prioritized in this way so that calls can be responded to appropriately and according to the threat to the child.