Investigation Response

Valid CPS reports will be considered for an Investigation Response when there are immediate child safety concerns and/or the type of report is required by the Code of Virginia to be investigated including, but not limited to:

• Sexual abuse

• Fatalities

• Serious injuries

• Hospitalization due to suspected abuse/neglect

• Physical abuse requiring medical evaluation and/or treatment

• Abandonment

• Injury due to use of weapons such as guns or knives

• Institutional abuse/neglect

The purpose of the investigation is to protect the child; determine if abuse/neglect occurred; identify the abuser/neglector; and provide service: to prevent recurrence. Joint investigations with law enforcement and/or regulatory authorities, it accordance with local protocols, may occur.

Each CPS investigation results in a finding of Founded or Unfounded within 45-60 days of report. Founded reports are kept by local social services departments and the Virginia Department of Social Services, Central Registry of Founded Child Abuse and Neglect for 3 to 18 years depending upon the severity of the incident.