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Policy Manual

CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATIONS
Conducting the Investigation

34-3-4
Preparation for the Investigation

Policy Upon receipt of an assignment, the investigator shall gather information about the child and family and plan for the investigation.

See the following related policies:

Cross-References:

31-8-3, "Critical Incidents - Reporting Procedures"

33-6-18, "Notification to State or Local Police"

34-4, "Response Time for Commencement and Completion of an Investigation"

34-5, "Required Contacts During an Investigation"

34-6, "Entrance to Client’s Home"
Gathering Information The investigator shall take the following steps to gather information about the child and family:
  • read the CPS Report Protocol (DCF-2073a & b)
  • call back the reporter
  • read any Department historical records that are available, including LINK, CMS, Probate studies, and any other closed records
  • for active cases, consult with the active assessment/service worker and supervisor

Note: The investigator is responsible for conducting the investigation. If the child must be removed, the active assessment/service worker is responsible for the placement.
  • consult with any staff who have had previous contact with the family
  • consult with the Regional Resource Group, as appropriate
  • contact police if assistance is required or if criminal activity is suspected

Note: Police must always be contacted in cases of sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, severe neglect, or death of child. In these cases,efforts shall be made to conduct a joint investigation with the police.
  • submit a request to the State Police (DCF-2113) for a background check on all adult household members and other adults who have access to the child in the home

Note: If there is not sufficient information at this time to submit the request, (e.g., unknown date of birth), it can be submitted when the information is obtained after the home visit.

Note: The response from the State Police must be documented on the LINK Investigation Protocol (DCF-2074) and filed in the confidential section of the uniform case record.
  • complete a Critical Incident Summary (DCF-823), if needed.
Planning the Investigation After gathering as much information as possible, the investigator shall meet with the supervisor to discuss and plan each investigation, including consideration of the following:
  • safety issues for the child, parent, and investigator
  • if initial home visits should be unannounced
  • how and when to notify the parent(s)
  • whether to interview the child without the parent’s permission
  • how to conduct the interviews
  • cultural issues and language needs
  • collaterals to be contacted, including as appropriate,
    • police
    • medical and mental health personnel
    • school and/or day care personnel
    • military family advocates
    • community service providers who have had past contact with the family.
Final Steps Prior to Leaving the Office Prior to leaving the office to conduct the field response, the investigator shall
  • obtain materials for the investigation, including as necessary,
    • transportation
    • pager
    • cellular telephone
  • sign out, indicating the
    • the time left
    • destination
    • pager number
    • estimated time of return.
Documentation The investigator shall document information, decisions, and activities in LINK, including the Investigation Protocol, DCF-2074, and case activity notes.

Connecticut Department of Children and Families                                   Effective Date: July 15, 1999 (Revised)