Investigating Child Abuse

INVESTIGATING CHILD ABUSE

Texas Child Protective Services is the point of contact for reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation of vulnerable children. Among other things, caseworkers must determine if a child is in danger and should be removed to a safer place.

1

Call comes to CPS.

2

A CPS investigator visits the home of the suspected victim and interviews child and parents or caregivers.

Source: Texas Child Protective Services

3

CPS researches the family for prior history of abuse or neglect and determines if there is enough evidence to confirm allegation.

4

Once abuse or neglect is confirmed, the CPS investigator consults with supervisor to determine what to do: remove child or monitor the home.

5

If finally removed, CPS decides where the child should go: foster care or a relative. If abuse is bad enough, CPS might require the permanent removal from caregiver.

ALBERTO CUADRA : C H R O N I C L E