1. Role of the Child Protective Investigator (CPI)
Conduct investigations of alleged child abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
Assess child safety and determine immediate risk.
Make determinations regarding removal or in-home safety planning.
Provide testimony in dependency court when required.
2. Legal Framework
Governed by Florida Statutes, Chapter 39.
Mandatory reporting requirements through the Florida Abuse Hotline.
Shelter hearings required within 24 hours of removal.
Follow statutory timelines for investigations and court filings.
3. Types of Maltreatment
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Emotional abuse
Neglect
Abandonment
Substance-exposed newborns
4. Safety and Risk Assessment
Identify present and impending danger threats.
Determine if child is safe, conditionally safe, or unsafe.
Develop safety plans when removal is not required.
Reassess safety throughout the investigation.
5. Investigative Process
Initial response within mandated timeframe.