Child Abuse/Neglect Unit

Officers assigned to the abuse/neglect unit are responsible for reviewing requests from the Missouri Children’s Division and law enforcement agencies for court intervention of children alleged to have been abused and/or neglected by parents or other caretakers. The Officer is responsible for opening a preliminary inquiry to determine if there is sufficient evidence to open a formal case when a child’s safety cannot be ensured in the family home. Once a formal case is opened, the Officer is responsible for providing ongoing court case management services, compliance of court orders, and permanency for the child.

The Juvenile Office practices Team Decision Making meetings for the placement stability of all children in care and are held prior to, or within 72 hours of an emergency move. All team members are invited, including the parent and older youth, and are designed to reduce the number of placements a child has during their time in care.

The abuse/neglect unit also works closely with Court Appointed Specialists (CASA) that supports and promotes court-appointed advocates for abused or neglected children in order to provide children with a safe and healthy environment in permanent homes.