§8353. Investigation team

1.  Investigation team established.  The investigation team is established within the division to investigate reports of suspected abuse or neglect of children by persons or in facilities subject to department licensure in accordance with this chapter.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

2.  Participation with other departments.  The investigation team, on its own or upon request, may assist and participate with another department or agency charged with the responsibility to investigate child abuse or neglect, including the Department of Education or the Department of Corrections.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

3.  Addition of relevant professionals.  The investigation team shall include, as appropriate, relevant professionals to participate as members of the investigation team for investigations of residential treatment centers, group homes, certified family child care providers or child care facilities.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

4.  Assistance by licensing staff.  Upon the request of the division, department staff that performs general licensing functions may assist the investigation team in conducting out-of-home child abuse or neglect investigations.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

5.  Consultation with law enforcement and others.  The investigation team may consult with law enforcement personnel, advocates and others in the investigation of out-of-home child abuse or neglect.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

6.  Results.  The investigation team shall provide the results of its investigation to the applicable department for appropriate action.

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

7.  Investigation team training.  The investigation team shall receive training in the following:

A. Child development;   [PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

B. Identification of abuse and neglect;   [PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

C. Interview techniques, including but not limited to techniques for interviewing children who are nonverbal or have limited verbal ability;   [PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

D. Licensing laws and rules applicable to facilities or persons subject to this chapter; and   [PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

E. Remedies available to prevent, correct or eliminate abuse and neglect in out-of-home settings.   [PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

[PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).]

SECTION HISTORY

PL 2015, c. 283, §3 (NEW).