Joint investigations between DCF and the appropriate law enforcement agency or agencies are mandated by statute (K.S.A. 38-2226(b)) when a report alleges serious physical harm to, serious deterioration of or sexual abuse of the child; and action may be required to protect the child. This determination is made by the Kansas Protection Report Center and is documented on the PPS 1002. Reports assigned alleging a methamphetamine lab in a home where children are present or reside, shall be forwarded to law enforcement for joint investigation. (See PPM 0210 Staff Safety)
It shall be the responsibility of the assigned local office to notify the responsible law enforcement agency. DCF meets its statutory responsibility when a request is made and documented for law enforcement assistance. DCF shall not delay the initial safety determination and/or required protective action to prevent (further) abuse if law enforcement does not respond.
If conditions are known or suspected at the time the report is accepted which would require a joint investigation, the law enforcement agency should be involved from the initial contact whenever practical and consistent with child safety.
In the event a law enforcement agency was not involved in an investigation or assessment conducted by DCF and information later indicates abuse or neglect which is required to be reported to a law enforcement agency, the report to the law enforcement agency shall be made without delay. If the assigned CPS specialist becomes aware of new or additional concerns for human trafficking per K.S.A. 38-2202, a report shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement agency without delay.
If a law enforcement officer requests assistance from DCF in the investigation of a report of child abuse or neglect, the department will assist. Nothing shall prevent the department from providing assistance prior to a report being made to and assessed by the Kansas Protection Report Center.