cpi practice application lab 1: pre-commencement...

April 2015

CPI Practice Application Lab 1: Pre-Commencement Preparation

CPI Pre-Service Curriculum | Lab 1 - TG 1

April 2015

Lab 1: Pre-Commencement Preparation

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Time:

Unit Overview: This unit takes participants through each step of information

collection for pre-commencement preparation, using the Sandler case example. Participants will review considerations about the focus of the current FFA, reading prior child welfare history and criminal history rap sheets, the use of other professional expertise and planning the sequence and location of interviews.

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Review learning objectives. Learning Objectives

1. Explain how to conduct analysis of information already known. 2. Discuss actions necessary to prepare for interview. 3. Explain the use of interagency consultation and teamwork.


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Trainer Note: Refer to “Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines, CPI”

• Pre-Commencement Activities • Interagency Consultation and Teamwork

The practice guidelines for information collection and assessment provide the CPI with structure regarding “what” you do to develop the Family Functioning Assessment—Investigations. The practice guidelines provide the detailed expectations for CPIs to promote due diligence in information gathering, maintaining control of information gathering with a clear purpose and focus. As you have heard many times, information is sufficient when it addresses and is relevant to the specific information domain and when it has been reconciled and validated. Consideration of “historical information” – information known about the family in FSFN case records (including both criminal and child welfare history, aka “priors”) becomes part of your information gathering and analysis. Recall that when we discussed the establishment of formal systems to identify and assist “battered children” in the first module of pre-service, one of the first goals of legislation was the establishment of reporting systems and maintaining records of children reported. This was done so that patterns of child abuse and neglect could be better detected. The practice guidelines address the sequence of information collection, beginning with a review of what is known about the


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family through our own system as well as other information systems, such as criminal history. The sequencing of information gathering is essential in order to guide the CPI in regard to what they need to learn, and the most efficient and effective ways to go about “learning it.” The first step in an investigation is obviously to read and assess the current allegation.

What are you going to “assess” when you read the hotline intake?

Endorse:

Lead discussion to cover the following points: • Is this present danger and therefore requires an immediate

response? • Who made the report and do they appear to know the

family well? • Who is alleged to be responsible for the maltreatment and

are they a parent or significant caregiver? • What information is stated in the report that relates to other

information domains of child functioning, adult functioning, parenting, discipline/behavior management?

• Is there a means to locate the child victim? • What are ages of children so that I can prepare accordingly? • Are there language barriers and a need for an interpreter? • Is there a family condition that I need to consult an expert

about before going to the home (e.g. parent might be suffering from delusions associated with mental illness; child has a specific medical condition and the allegation is that parent is not providing proper care)?


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Display Slides 1.1.4 and 1.1.5 (PG: 5)

Trainer Note: Refer to “Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines, All Staff,

Focus of Family Functioning Assessment.”

A key task early in an investigation is to determine who is responsible for the care and protection of the children in the home. These are the persons for whom we will assess protective capacities in the FFA. They will be the focus of the FFA in terms of having information domains (adult functioning, parenting, discipline/behavior management) that are specific to that individual. The sufficiency of the information domains developed for that person will provide the CPI with the ability to determine whether or not each of the protective capacities is sufficient, or not. It will also provide information needed for completing the Risk Assessment. The information domains developed for parents/caregivers will be both in the FFA developed, and attached to their person information in FSFN. This is a change that came about with the implementation of the FFA. The person responsible for the care and protection of the child always includes the parent or other caregiver with legal responsibility. The CPI will also need to determine who else in the household has significant caregiving responsibilities. Sometimes this is apparent from the hotline intake. At other times, it will take investigative activities to discern who in the household does have significant caregiving responsibilities.


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Situations involving paramours or other household members must involve diligence in learning what role, if any, the paramour or other household member has assumed with regard to the care and protection of children in the home.

Trainer Note: Trainer should review the significant caregiving responsibilities

which are defined in the “Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines, All Staff, Focus of Family Functioning Assessment.”

Significant Caregiver Responsibility means that the specific adult household members have taken on responsibility for major caregiving responsibilities. Things to consider in determining whether another adult household member has significant responsibility include but are not limited to the following:

a. Pervasive, day to day care and responsibility for protecting the child such that the child views such caregiver(s) as one of the primary persons with the authority for their care and the caregiver is expected to remain a part of the family unit OR

b. The other household member or paramour residing in or frequenting the home has become a parent figure based on the: • child welfare professional observations of interactions

between child and paramour • child’s statements about the household member or

paramour • statements from other family members or friends

who are familiar with family functioning • the child has a bond with the household member or

paramour, even though the household member or paramour may or may not provide any financial support to the family.


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Display Slides 1.1.6 and 1.1.7 (PG: 6)

Another factor that must be assessed early in an investigation is whether all household members been identified, and in the case of shared parenting, is maltreatment occurring in more than one household? The CPI will also often encounter situations where several families, related or not related, will be living together under the same roof. At times, there will be a need to for two separate FFAs.

Trainer Note: Trainer should review the household definition as well as how

to approach the assessment of a household in which more than one family is residing. These situations are defined in the Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines, All Staff, Focus of Family Functioning Assessment in the relevant excerpts below.

Definitions

1. “Household” means a common residence shared by two or more individuals whether related or not. (Rule 65C-30.001 Definitions, F.A.C., 05-21-14)

2. “Household Member” means any person who resides in a household, including the caregiver and other family members residing in the home. Household members are any additional relatives or persons residing in the home, including but not limited to visitors expected to stay an indefinite length of time or college students expected to return to the home. (Rule 65C-30.001 Definitions, F.A.C., 05-21-14)


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1.e. When more than one family unit resides in the same household, the family unit wherein the alleged maltreatment occurred will be the focus of the FFA when:

• The family units clearly function independently from each other.

• The two family units may share some or all of the household expenses but do not have access to or combine family incomes.

• The children in each family do not view the parent(s) in the other family unit as having any responsibility or authority over their care.

• Some child care duties may be shared on occasion. 1.f. When only one of two family units residing together is the focus of the FFA, the non-focus family members will not be identified as participants. 1.g. When two families reside together and share caregiving responsibilities, a separate FFA will be created for each family.

It should be noted that the FFA will provide some information about everyone in the household, whether they have a significant role as a caregiver, or whether they are another family that just happens to share a living arrangement. They may be an older family member who is being taken care of by the child’s parent. In such a situation, the extent and nature of these relationships will be described in the adult functioning description for the parent. Our first three activities relate to pre-commencement preparation. These activities are for the purpose of helping you understand what to look for, and the value and importance of advance planning in conducting any investigation. Advance planning begins with reading the hotline intake.


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Lab Activity 1: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis—Hotline Intake

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Materials:

• PG: 7: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis instructions

• PG: 8-13, Melanie Sandler Intake • PG: 14-15, Pre-Commencement Information Analysis: Hotline Intake

worksheet Trainer instructions:

• Have participants read the 2014 hotline intake in their PG for Melanie Sandler.

• Review the worksheet for Lab Activity 1, Hotline Intake, to be completed individually after reading the intake. In this case, the hotline intake provides two versions of what happened. Tell participants that they are to be specific as to what details are different in each parent report that will need to be “reconciled.” The next part of their assessment asks them to assess how much about the information domains is “known” by the reporter.

• After participants have completed the worksheet independently, process each item as a large group.

• As the processing occurs, trainer should create two flip charts that will be used/modified through-out several subsequent activities. “Information Discrepancies” in the intake. Participants should

identify the discrepancies that are provided in the trainer version of the worksheet below, item # 2.

“Information Gaps” in the intake. The family conditions that we know we will want to learn more about just based on the intake: - What is the “difficult relationship” between James and step-

father? - Who are other two children in home and how are they


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affected by family dynamics? - Any observations of home, child and mother that support

severity of what happened? - Is there a substance abuse problem that is out of control? - What information would you need to obtain to help you assess

for a pattern of coercive control indicative of domestic violence?

• You will refer to this analysis after each interview to provide participants with a visual aide that helps them see the additional information learned in each interview that helps build sufficient information for reconciliation of discrepant pieces of information. This analysis can also be used to any new information learned that needs to be reconciled or validated.


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Pre-Commencement Information Analysis: Hotline Intake Worksheet

1. What are the specific allegations identified by the Hotline? Are the maltreatments assigned to the report supported by the information narrative?

Physical Injury (James only) Family Violence Threatens (all three children in the home)

Discussion: Based upon what you know at this point should the hotline have added Substance Misuse as a maltreatment? What information might the Hotline have asked the reporter to help inform this decision? Answer: “Call out’ history.

If the reporter had been a family member…what critical information could the hotline counselor have asked to help inform the decision? Answer: Is there a pattern of the Stepfather losing control when he drinks? Trainer Note: Remind CPIs it is their responsibility to add maltreatments identified in the course of the investigation.

2. What key pieces of information presented in any of the Intake information

domains must be reconciled? Information A vs. Information B Surrounding Circumstances: “The mother provided a slightly different account of events” is very misleading (at this point, we’re not sure if these were the reporter’s exact words or the hotline counselor just happened to word it this way but based on the context it more likely appears to be the spin the reporter put on it). St/F – Went to physically remove James Mother – Went to discipline James James went limp, began to hit St/F grabbed James around the throat grabbed wrist to restrain slammed against seat of chair mother jumped on St/F back St/F pinned mom against sliding glass door and slapped her in face went upstairs, grabbed James grabbed James by the throat and shoulders and told to stay put tried to throw him onto bunk beds mother hit again by St/F Degree of Intoxication? Rptr - Drinking earlier but did not appear Mother – St/F came home from a bar and to be intoxicated was intoxicated not slurring, stumbling or incoherent out-of-control behaviors by St/F


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3. In the limited context of what information the Intake currently provides are there any obvious starting points for discussion with the caregiver regarding the alleged maltreatment or aspects of family functioning? These “suggested answers” are not necessarily all inclusive:

- What is the “difficult relationship” between James and step-father? - Who are other two children in home and how are they affected by family

dynamics? - Is there a connection between the St/F’s use of alcohol and his negative

interactions with James? Is there a substance abuse problem that is out of control?

- What information would you need to obtain to help you assess for a pattern of coercive control indicative of domestic violence?

- Any observations of home, child and mother that support severity of what happened?

4. What information in the intake, if any, indicates potential for Present Danger? Is

the appropriate response time (Immediate/24 hours) assigned? Answer: The potential for Present Danger is supported by : Significant: Child was grabbed by the throat twice; child’s mother felt

need to physically intervene twice to keep St/F from hurting James

Immediate: While the intake references the St/F left the home and is

going to be staying with his mother this is conjecture and not fact. Until CPI can verify St/F’s whereabouts threat is active

Trainer Note: Emphasize that the AP being out of the home or child temporary staying

somewhere else does not in, and of itself, negate present danger. Clearly Observable: St/F’s behavior was clearly out of control – throwing

chairs, grabbed the child by the throat twice, slammed him against the chair, mother was slapped three times and hit once

Answer: The above considerations support the CPIS changing the response

priority from 24 hours to Immediate.

5. Based upon the information presented where should the initial contact with the child victim(s) take place?


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Answer: Based upon the time of the call (2:30 a.m.) an Immediate response would

require going to the child’s residence. If commenced as a 24 hour investigation and school was in session the next day the CPI could attempt to see that child at school prior to interviewing the non-maltreating parent at home or work.

6. What resources (e.g., family, friends, etc.) are listed in the Intake who might be

considered appropriate supports to help in the development of a Present Danger Safety Plan?

Answer: Both the paternal and maternal grandmothers are referenced in the intake. The

maternal grandmother responded to the home and the paternal grandmother is reportedly allowing her son to stay with her “to allow the family to cool down.” Either, or both, may be a resource in the development of a safety plan.

7. What persons identified in the Intake narrative are likely sources of important information on the maltreatment incident itself, or would be familiar enough with the child and family to provide relevant information on child and adult functioning?

Answer: Child victim, mother, stepfather, law enforcement officer responding to call, maternal and paternal grandmothers.

Activity End

Display Slide 1.1.9 (PG: 16)


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When you go to a doctor’s office, if they don’t already you’re your medical history you will be asked to provide it. Why does that matter?

Trainer Note: Trainer should lead a discussion as to why medical history

would be important in terms of understanding medical conditions that have already been diagnosed and treated, what past treatments were, any remaining symptoms that are related, family history of illnesses that might be inherited, etc.

What else would you want to know about the family’s history of involvement with the department before going out on an investigation?

Trainer Note: It is important to lead this discussion about prior history in a way that participants identify the value of “learning what we already know about a family” and why that matters. If participants are not aware of the recent of practice model changes associated with the safety methodology they will need a brief overview to understand why some “priors” contain CSAs and not FFAs.

The review of past information gathered about the family is to determine:

• Past history and patterns of alleged abuse as well as the maltreatment findings and the caregiver responsible in previous reports. This would include whether the parent was an alleged child victim in past reports.

o Even though there may not have been verified findings, someone was worried enough about family dynamics to call in a report. More than likely, there is some information about family functioning in past reports that is worth noting, particularly if the current report suggests there has been a recent and/or marked decrease in child or adult functioning.

• Any worker safety concerns. Has anyone in this family shown violence towards a worker in the past? Does anyone have a history of assault and battery on other persons? Do they have pets that have been aggressive towards a worker in the past? Should law enforcement be contacted to accompany


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the CPI to the home? • Patterns of domestic violence, substance abuse or mental

illness. In particular, substance abuse and domestic violence tend to escalate over time in terms of severity of problem. These are conditions that do not go away.

o Mental illness requires a lifetime of management; domestic violence tends to escalate in severity over time, even with participation and completion of batter’s intervention programs.

o DV is a pattern that occurs across many different relationships, and can also actively occur after separation in different ways (visitation with children, with-holding of support, using children as ‘pawns,’ etc.

• Any special needs that children have that have been mentioned in prior reports.

• Cultural considerations, including any language barriers. • Which services were tried in the past, and were they

effective? There are many considerations regarding a past service,

including— o The family may not have needed the service, the

underlying problem may have been misdiagnosed o The service may have been the “right” type of service,

but was not a good match to the level of intensity needed, or family culture, or other accessibility issues.

o The service may have been an excellent match to family needs and was successful at the time; there might be a relapse happening currently (e.g. a relapse involving alcohol or drugs).


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Refer to participant guide “Practice Guidelines, All Staff Safety Planning—Criminal History Record Information Resource Guide”

Trainer Note: Practice guidelines for the criminal background checks are provided in “Practice Guidelines for All Staff, Criminal History Record Information Resource Guide.” This next section discusses the primary information sources that are accessed by the hotline, as well as locally. The Practice Guidelines discuss the information sources accessed through the hotline Crime Intelligence Unit (CIU) and for what purposes. The following material is an important overview of guidelines in this area, including what can be shared. The other critical information in the next section is how to read a rap sheet which will be important for the participants to know in the next exercise.

The CPI assigned to the investigation is also responsible for ensuring that all criminal history and delinquency records are obtained and reviewed for subjects of an investigation as required by Florida Statute and Department policy. This includes requesting new criminal history checks when updated demographic information is obtained and/or when new participants are added to the investigation. Before we learn how to read a rap sheet, we are going to spend some time discussing the information you will receive, it’s proper and improper uses. The Hotline Criminal Intelligence Unit (CIU) provides support to the CPI in obtaining criminal history from criminal justice data bases that they have access to. The criminal checks prepared by the


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hotline draw from information in: • Florida Crime Information Center (FCIC), administered by

the Florida Department of Law Enforcement • National Crime Information Center (NCIC), administered by

the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) • Driver and Vehicle Information Data Base (DAVID),

administered by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

• Department of Corrections (DOC) data sources • Juvenile Justice Information System (JJIS), administered by

the Department of Juvenile Justice • Comprehensive Case Information System (CCIS) providing

Florida Clerk of Court information. • Jail Booking System (APPRISS)

PG: 17 A “rap sheet” from NCIC or FCIC will include information about arrests, dispositions, injunctions, warrants, missing person, sexual predator/sexual offender, probation or parole. FCIC & NCIC rap sheets are particularly helpful for accessing patterns of behavior that might pose a direct threat to a child. FCIC rap sheets, and most states participating in NCIC who agree to use for child protection investigations, indicate whether there are records that have been expunged or that are sealed. An “expunged record” refers to a record that no longer legally exists since the file and any reference to it is destroyed except for the reference contained in the FCIC database. A “sealed record” is a record that has been sealed by the court and is not available to the general public. It can be opened for inspection by the individual, his/her attorney, a criminal justice agency and, in specific situations, a prospective employer. PG: 18 DAVID should show Florida license status which includes:

• Suspended (temp removal of privileges)


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• Disqualified (not allowed to possess license until requirements are met i.e. eye exam passage, habitual traffic offender etc.)

• Revoked (privileges removed and will not return i.e. multiple DUI, fatalities etc.)

DAVID is also used to verify identity and as a means to locate a person. Department of Corrections data base - Provides information to include photos of persons under the supervisor of the Florida DOC. Possibly helpful with locating subjects and obtaining info that supplements Rap Sheets. DJJ Delinquency Records are helpful in assessing for patterns of delinquent behavior for participants 12-27-year-old and obtaining additional information concerning family dynamics. CCIS – Can be helpful with obtaining additional or supplemental information such as missing dispositions, court dates etc. May also provide civil court information that would not be available in other data sources. APPRISS will provide information on recent Jail Bookings (including images) for 42 states as well as for Florida. May be useful as a means to locate and/or obtaining status for specific subjects prior to a local Agency providing updates to FCIC.



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Each CPI unit has access to investigative support and/or analytical staff that will assist the CPI in obtaining records from some of the same or additional sources. Examples of information sources include:

• Local law enforcement records • Florida Clerk of the Court (CCIS) • FDLE Sexual Offender and Predator Website • Out-of-State Child Welfare Records • Florida Vital Statistics • ACCESS Florida Information

In most areas, locally pulled records will be provided to you from local staff assigned either when you receive a new intake or shortly thereafter.


When a household member’s name and/or demographics is not known at the time of the intake, or when the CPI learns of other persons in the household, the CPI must submit a recheck request to the hotline to gather the criminal history information. A recheck is also used to assess background history of informal safety plan providers who will be coming into the home at certain times of the day to provide a safety service. All participants for whom criminal history record information is requested must be entered as participants of the investigation in the Florida Safe Families Network (FSFN) prior to history record search being conducted using the FCIC, NCIC, DJJ, and DHSMV


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systems. This is accomplished by adding the subject to the case in FSFN and checking the background screening checkbox. The hotline CIU responds to recheck requests as quickly as possible; their goal is to provide the information within 24 hours. The CPI will also need to know the local procedure for obtaining information from the other information sources that are accessed locally (e.g., local law enforcement “call outs” – when law enforcement responds to the home due to a complaint by a household member, neighbor, or any private citizen).


CPIs are given access to this information however it is for investigative purposes only. When a record check reveals that that there is sealed or expunged information, the CPI will receive two rap sheets for the person checked:

• Rap sheet “C” with sealed/expunged record information • Rap sheet “Q” with same information minus the

sealed/expunged references. Florida records containing sealed or expunged information, the rap sheet with a “C” or any National Criminal history record may only be shared with child protection investigations staff and CLS, or the State Attorney’s Office (an approved law enforcement agency).


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When there is no “sealed/expunged” information in the record, the CPI will only receive the Q document. A Q document may be shared with Department contracted case managers at the time of case transfer. When the Q document itself is shared with authorized staff outside the department, such as a contracted case management agency, there is a local dissemination log that is used to document that transaction. This log is audited periodically by FDLE to ensure that the department is in compliance.

The Department has a “Terminal Agency Coordinator” (TAC) who is responsible for ensuring agency and user compliance with use of FCIC and NCIC information. There are also regionally-based persons responsible for CPI access and accounts to the DHSMV DAVID system. Your supervisor will explain who any local resources are and expectations as to how you can use these resources. The guidelines for your access to and use of FCIC and NCIC are strict and must be adhered to diligently. Guidelines for the use of the information is available in the “Criminal History Record Information Resource Guide” which is part of Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines for All Staff. Audits are conducted monthly by the department, and FDLE and/or the FBI also conduct periodic on site audits through-out the year to ensure the proper use of this information.


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All NCIC, FCIC rap sheets and DAVID information that you will receive in FSFN are programmed to “purge” from your record in 72-hours from receipt. This is to help ensure that these records are not retained in any way in our child welfare system. FCIC (Q) and DAVID may be printed prior to the purge. FSFN security settings will not allow the NCIC and FCIC (C) to be printed.


Criminal history documents/rap sheets that have been printed may not be copied or scanned into any local child welfare record system to include FSFN or any physical case record. If a case is subsequently transferred to a case management agency, the original printed information should be physically passed-along in an envelope marked “Confidential.” There are several other improper uses of NCIC, FCIC and DAVID that CPIs must be aware of. Improper uses include:

• Submitting a request for FCIC/NCIC to the Hotline for unauthorized purposes such as for Adoptions, Foster


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Licensing, Respite, or Judicial Review.

• Querying systems to include but not limited to D.A.V.I.D. for other than authorized business purposes. Examples of unauthorized purposes: Checking a family member’s driving record, looking up celebrities or politicians, or copying information to supply friends/family/public.

• Distributing information to unauthorized persons or agencies.

Improper dissemination also includes misuse of the records and/or unauthorized use including sharing, copying or scanning.


The CPI may document in case notes that the appropriate background checks were conducted, the date, and the person’s name. They may state that based on a review of the information, there does or does not appear to be an impact on child safety. Specific details as to the specific charges from a National criminal history record or Florida record containing sealed/expunged information may not be provided. Information in a “Q” rap sheet may be summarized in case notes as to dates, the charge and disposition.

While you cannot reveal specific charges, dispositions or dates, from a Florida record containing sealed/expunged information or a National criminal history record/rap sheet you can and should


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summarize the basis for any concerns you have as part of the analysis of family functioning, in the final FFA-Investigations that you develop. The whole purpose of having access to these records is for the CPI to more fully assess a pattern of behaviors, including criminal history, that indicate or support a pattern of out-of-control dynamics. Standard practice includes investigators requesting local law enforcement records from out of state sources when the NCIC check reveals significant criminal history related to child safety concerns. The reason is twofold. First, the investigator will likely receive much more complete information about the problematic arrests/convictions. Secondly, while the CPI cannot record specific charges from an NCIC run it is okay to document and discuss these same charges when this information is also obtained directly from another state law enforcement agency when released as their local arrest history. It is important that the CPI document that the information was received directly from the out of state local check so FDLE does not think it is a violation of NCIC code when conducting an audit. CPIs can record specific FCIC and local arrest history in FSFN but never NCIC information.

Display Slide 1.1.18

Trainer Note: Trainer should review the participant guide “Limits on Child

Placements” which summarizes the specific statutory cites governing the placement of children with persons who have a criminal history. The CPI must be careful to use “Purpose code Q” when requesting criminal background information for placement purposes. Using this code is important in terms of regulations developed by the FBI, and use of this code means that the “Q” document produced can be shared with case managers.


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PG: 23 LIMITS ON CHILD PLACEMENTS

F.S. 39.0138 (2) The department may not place a child with a person other than a parent if the criminal history records check reveals that the person has been convicted of any felony that falls within any of the following categories: (a) Child abuse, abandonment, or neglect; (b) Domestic violence; (c) Child pornography or other felony in which a child was a victim of the offense; or (d) Homicide, sexual battery, or other felony involving violence, other than felony assault or felony battery when an adult was the victim of the assault or battery. (3) The department may not place a child with a person other than a parent if the criminal history records check reveals that the person has, within the previous 5 years, been convicted of a felony that falls within any of the following categories: (a) Assault; (b) Battery; or (c) A drug-related offense. (4) The department may place a child in a home that otherwise meets placement requirements if a name check of state and local criminal history records systems does not disqualify the applicant and if the department submits fingerprints to the Department of Law Enforcement for forwarding to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is awaiting the results of the state and national criminal history records check. (5) Persons with whom placement of a child is being considered or approved must disclose to the department any prior or pending local, state, or national criminal proceedings in which they are or have been involved. (6) The department may examine the results of any criminal history records check of any person, including a parent, with whom placement of a child is being considered under this section. The complete criminal history records check must be considered when determining whether placement with the person will jeopardize the safety of the child being placed. (7)(a) The court may review a decision of the department to grant or deny the placement of a child based upon information from the criminal history records check. The review may be upon the motion of any party, the request of any person who has been denied a placement by the department, or on the


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court’s own motion. The court shall prepare written findings to support its decision in this matter.

The CPI may also use the data resources that the Hotline CIU has access to when assessing individuals who are being considered as a placement resource, such as release of a child to a non-maltreating parent, or a possible emergency placement. In such cases, a different code, Purpose Code X, must be used when the CPI requests the information through FSFN. When background information is obtained for placement purposes, the CPI must ensure that person submits fingerprints within 15-days following the request. This is a federal requirement as fingerprints are the most dependable way to locate all criminal records available. Name checks at the hotline may be less accurate due to person’s use of an alias (AKA), incorrect social security numbers, misspelled names, etc.


Trainer Note: Trainer should hand out the quick reference guide and briefly review the information. The primary resource CPIs will use will be the Practice Guidelines, however, this is a quick reference guide.


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Florida and National Rap Sheets are similar in formatting and how the information is organized. States may vary on the type of info provided and dispositions can be missing. Rap Sheets normally contain:

• Type of Offense and Date • Personally Identifiable Information (PII) • Arresting Agency and Court • Disposition.

Trainer Note: Trainer should refer participants to Handouts 1, 2 and 3 in the

participant guides. Discuss the information contained in all the grey shaded boxes for each sheet. The main objective is primarily to familiarize participants with the forms and to show that despite the initial complexity of the information - the format, use of acronyms and terminology is standardized and readily discernible.

PG: 25-28, provides an example of a FCIC “Q” Document.

PG: 29-33, provides examples of a NCIC document without any results displayed and one with results returned. PG: 34-39, provides an example of J Document summary which may include information from a variety of sources including: DHSMV D.A.V.I.D., DJJ JJIS, DOC, and APPRISS Jail Booking.


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PG: 25-28, FCIC “Q” Document (Page 2)


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FCIC “Q” Document (Page 3)


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FCIC “Q” Document (Page 4)


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NCIC “N” Document – No Results


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NCIC “N” Document – With Results (Page 1 of 4)


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“J” Document Summary (Page 1 of 5)

The Judicial Inquiry System (JIS) report is provided in the J

document. It provides information from the following data sources: DHSMV D.A.V.I.D. DJJ JJIS DOC APPRISS Jail Booking

The JIS report/J document only returns located records and does not indicate what systems were checked (for which no records were found). As a result, the Hotline CI Tech will include a summary in the Q document alerting the CPI to any systems not checked (due to system downtimes, etc.).


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The Table of Contents indicates what records were found by system. In this example DHSMV and DJJ histories were discovered

Which major information sources usually checked are not

showing up in the table of contents? Endorse:

DOC and APPRISS Jail Booking How do you know the difference between a system not being

checked and that simply no results were found in those databases?

Endorse:

Look back at the last page of the Q document. APPRISS, DOC and CCIS were checked with no results. JIS was not checked so there may be relevant information that still needs to be obtained.



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Every state has its own criminal codes and what constitutes a

felony vs. a misdemeanor. In your participant guides is a brief overview of Florida definitions for your information.

A disposition normally means a Judge’s ruling and/or a court’s final decision on a lawsuit or criminal charge. To obtain a missing disposition the arresting agency or appropriate Clerk of the Court may need to be contacted.

Rap Sheets may contain additional information other than the


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criminal history record such as Person or Status Files. These are often referred in the Criminal Justice Community as Hot Files.


Status files are useful for the CPI in reviewing a person’s current status regarding probation. If the information has been uploaded by the law enforcement agency responsible, the Hotline CIU will generally be able to locate the record. Probation and supervised release are sentencing options involving the monitoring of a person convicted of a crime. Probation is normally used as a sentence option instead of jail time while supervised release normally follows a period of incarceration. If information about probation is not in the FCIC record, it should be in another data source such as CCIS or DOC. Status files also include information about protection orders. This information is extremely important for reviewing a pattern of domestic or family violence. If a protection order is found in FCIC the Hotline CIU will notify the CPI in the criminal history document. The timeframe of the injunction and who the order is against will be provided. Information specific to the person being protected cannot be provided per FDLE rules. Local checks and CCIS are additional data sources that may provide information concerning protection orders.

Trainer Note: Refer participants to “Felony Charges vs. Misdemeanor

Charges” in their Participant Guide. Review the key differences between the two.


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Felonies –involve much more serious charges. Three classes of charges (First, Second and Third degree). Tend to involve (1) crimes against persons, (2) costly property crimes, (3) stigmatized “social ills” like prostitution or use of drugs. Misdemeanors – all result in jail time of one year or less.

PG: 40

FELONY CHARGES VS MISDEMEANOR CHARGES WHAT IS A FELONY CHARGE? A felony is any criminal offense that is punishable under Florida laws, or that would be punishable if committed in Florida, by death or imprisonment in a state correctional facility. Felony charges include, but are not limited to: murder, manslaughter, rape, burglary, grand theft, kidnapping, worthless checks, forgery and uttering, aggravated battery, aggravated child abuse, possession and/or sale of drugs, and sexual battery. Felonies are classified for purposes of sentencing into the following categories:

o Capital Felony o Life Felony o Felony of the first degree o Felony of the second degree o Felony of the third degree

WHAT IS A MISDEMEANOR CHARGE? A misdemeanor is a violation of a Florida Statute that is punishable by a fine, court costs, probation, or imprisonment in the county jail for no more than one (1) year. Most misdemeanor offenses are bondable offenses according to a bond schedule. Misdemeanor offenses include, but are not limited to: Petit Theft, Worthless Checks, Prostitution related charges, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest Without Violence, Assault and Battery (includes Domestic violence). Misdemeanor offenses also include payable civil infractions such as boating, hunting and fishing violations, Code Enforcement violations or Animal Control violations

WHAT IS A CRIMINAL TRAFFIC CHARGE?


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A Criminal Traffic charge is a violation of a Florida Statute that is punishable by a fine, court costs, probation, or imprisonment in the county jail for no more than one (1) year. Most Criminal Traffic offenses are bondable offenses according to a bond schedule. Criminal Traffic charges include, but are not limited to: Driving Under the Influence, Driving while License Suspended, Reckless Driving, No Valid Driver Licenses, Attaching Tag not Assigned, Expired Driver Licenses more than 6 months which, in most cases, requires a court appearance and it carries with it criminal penalties which may include a fine and/or the possibility of a jail term. This failure to appear could result in a delinquency fee being assessed; your driving privilege being suspended and a possible capias could be issued for your arrest.

In order to assess criminal history information CPIs need to know

and understand Florida’s use of terminology to describe criminal record dispositions. Refer participants to “Florida Criminal Record Disposition Explanations” in the participant guides and ask them to read through the definitions. After reading through the material ask if there are any questions about a specific definition(s).

PG: 42

FLORIDA CRIMINAL RECORD DISPOSITION EXPLANATIONS

Acquittal, Not Guilty - The defendant has been found not guilty of the offense tried for.

Adjudication Withheld - Court decision at any point after filing of a criminal complaint, to continue court jurisdiction but stop short of pronouncing judgment. This is to avoid the undesirable effects of correction.

Clemency, Pardon, Amnesty Commutation, Reduced Sentence and Reprieve - Executive or legislative action where the severity of punishment is reduced or the punishment stopped or a person is exempted from prosecution for certain actions.

Conditional Release - Early release by executive decision from prison and whose release is contingent upon obeying specified rules of behavior.

Discharge - Release from confinement or suspension. FLORIDA CRIMINAL RECORD DISPOSITION EXPLANATIONS

Dismissal - Termination of court jurisdiction over a defendant in relation to charges before court or prosecutor.


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o Dismissals with prejudice - no reopening of case o Dismissals without prejudice - case could be reopened

Diversion - Official suspension of criminal proceedings against an offender after arrest, but before judgment and referral of person to a treatment or care program, or no referral.

Incompetent to Stand Trial - Defendant will not stand trial until the defendant may be found competent.

Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity - Not mentally competent at the time the crime was committed.

Nolo Contendere - Will not contest charge, but neither admits guilt nor claims innocence.

Guilty - Committed crime.

Transfer To Adult Court or Treat as an Adult - Juvenile has been transferred to adult court for disposition of criminal activity.

Acquittal (recommended statistical terminology) - The judgment of a court, based on the verdict of a jury or a judicial officer, that the defendant is not guilty of the offense(s) for which he or she has been tried.

Adjudication Withheld (recommended statistical terminology) - In criminal justice usage, a court decision at any point after filing of a criminal complaint, to continue court jurisdiction but stop short of pronouncing judgment.


What will we want to learn from the criminal history information in its totality associated with the family in an intake?

The documentation in the FFA should reveal a concise

summarization as to why the CPI’s review of criminal records


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deepens concerns about child safety. The examples provided in the slide are all types of summarizations that could be reflected in the FFA. Based on review of criminal history information, there is a pattern of:

• Aggressive and violent acts towards intimate partners (or children, or family members, etc.)

• Substance use that has resulted in legal consequences • Criminal behaviors and charges resulting in incarcerations • Behavior noted above is increasing in frequency and

severity. Display Slide 1.1.23

There will be times when an investigation must be commenced immediately (i.e., intakes involving present danger). In such cases, we might only have time for a cursory review of prior records. That does not relieve the CPI of conducting a thorough review of the record as soon as possible after the first interviews have been conducted. As soon as we have completed the initial interviews, it is imperative to review the information we already have in our records before we get too far downstream in other interviews. Otherwise, critical information known about family dynamics will be missed. We know from many reviews of casework practice that not paying attention to information we have gathered over time can lead to superficial, incomplete family assessments. Without an adequate family functioning assessment, we can’t


April 2015

make a dependable decision about child safety.

If we know that there is a history and haven’t yet had time to review it, what might we say to the family?

Endorse and elicit: • Tell them! e.g., “I know that you have been involved with the

department before, can you tell me about that?” • What services/resources did you find particularly beneficial?

Not so helpful? • What can I do at this time that would make this experience

more helpful to your family?

Letting the family know right up-front that you know there is a history to be reviewed has several benefits. It compels the family to think about what you’re likely to learn, and to go ahead and share the information with you now. You will learn how they perceive the past investigations as well as any services that resulted. It may also reveal their level of honesty, their perceptions of events, their capacity to remember details and a realistic indication of how likely they are to follow through with any safety or case planning activities. It is important to know that persons who have experienced significant trauma as adults may cope in different ways—they minimize the significance of it, they may believe that what happened is “normal” as that is what they experienced growing up; they may blame themselves, or disassociate altogether from what occurred. With substance abuse, depending on the severity of the problem, memory impairments can be significant and are associated with the time period that the person was using heavily. Do not assume that a lack of information from the family about past involvement means that they are “not honest.”


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When you learn critical information about family functioning that has not been discussed in your initial family interviews, you will need to return to the home to assess the caregiver’s recognition and appreciation for your new concerns and to work towards resolving any information discrepancies.

The second activity we will complete related to pre-

commencement preparation is to review any prior reports and criminal history information. For the Sandler case, there is one prior report and there is some criminal history information.

Lab Activity 2: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis—Past History Worksheet


Materials: • PG: 44-59, Pre-Commencement Information Analysis – Past History

instructions and worksheet

Instructions: • Have participants read the hotline intakes from 2009 and 2012 and the

criminal history information in their PG for Melanie Sandler-Braun. • Review the worksheet for Lab Activity 2, Past History, which they will

complete as individuals after reading the intake. Stress that the purpose of this exercise is to add information that is already known about the family that will be further explored, reconciled and validated when the investigation is commenced.

• After participants have completed the worksheet independently, process each item as a large group.


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April 2015

Sent: 2014-01-10 11:20:14 MNE-HDR: Y12345678 TEST-IND-HDR: N ATTN-HDR: DCF/FAH/ 2014-000001 CONT-NBR-HDR: 1111 MKE: FQI ORI: FL111111F FN: BRUCE LN: BRAUN RAC: W SEX: M DOB: 19831017 PUR-CCH: Q Received: 2014-01-10 11:21:10 DEV-NBR-HDR: MNE-HDR: Y12345678 ATTN-HDR: DCF/FAH/2014-000001 CONT-NBR-HDR: 1111 DTE-HDR: 20140110 TIME-HDR: 1121 MSG-NBR-HDR: 00002 MKE: FC FC FL111111F00000008 QDCF/FAH/2014-000001 -FLORIDA CCH RESPONSE-- ATN/DCF/FAH/2014-000001 FC.DLE/00000008.PUR/Q.ATN/DCF/FAH/2014-000001 SID NUMBER: 32134547 PURPOSE CODE:Q PAGE: 1 BECAUSE ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS MAY BE MADE AT ANY TIME, A NEW COPY SHOULD BE REQUESTED WHEN NEEDED FOR FUTURE USE - FLORIDA CRIMINAL HISTORY - NAME STATE ID NO. FBI NO. DATE REQUESTED BRAUN, BRUCE FL-32134547 01/10/2014 SEX RACE BIRTH DATE HEIGHT WEIGHT EYES HAIR BIRTH PLACE SKIN DOC NO. M W 10/17/1983 5'11'' 185 BRO BRO

----------------------------------------------------------------------------- AKA DOB SOC SCR/MRK/TAT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- BRAWN, BRUCE 10/27/1983 BRUAN, BRAD 10/17/1984


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------------------------------------------------------------------------------ --CONTINUED-- SID NUMBER: 32134547 PURPOSE CODE:Q PAGE: 2

ARREST- 1 01/03/2005 OBTS NO.-0012345678 ARREST AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE POLICE DEPARTMENT (FL1110000) AGENCY CASE-OFFENSE DATE-01/03/2005 CHARGE 001-BATTERY- STATUTE/ORDINANCE- LEVEL-FELONY, 3RD DEGREE JUDICIAL- AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COURT (FL0000001J) CHARGE 001 – COURT SEQ COURT NO. -000000XX123122121X00001 SUPPLEMENTAL ARREST DATA- STATUS-LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 1ST DEGREE PROSC DATA-BATTERY- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-FL784.03(1) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 1ST DEG STATUTE DESCRIPTN-BATTERY- PROS-ACTION-DATE-03/12/2005 ACTION-FILED DISP DATE- 08/04/2005 DISP-NOLLE PROSSED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ARREST- 2 01/12/2007 OBTS NO.-0000123456 ARREST AGENCY-ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE (FL02220000) AGENCY CASE-OFFENSE DATE- 01/12/2007 CHARGE 001-RACING HWY- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-316.191 LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 1ST DEG JUDICIAL- AGENCY-ORANGE COUNTY COURT (FL0222Y00J) CHARGE 001 – COURT SEQ COURT NO. -000000XX123442121X00001 SUPPLEMENTAL ARREST DATA- STATUS-LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 1ST DEGREE PROSC DATA-RACING HWY- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-FL316.191 (2) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 1ST DEG STATUTE DESCRIPTN-RACING HWY- PROS-ACTION-DATE-11/20/2007 ACTION-FILED DISP DATE- 11/27/2007 DISP-NOLLE PROSSED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ARREST- 3 04/22/2007 OBTS NO.-00667788 ARREST AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE POLICE DEPARTMENT (FL1110000)


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--CONTINUED-- SID NUMBER: 32134547 PURPOSE CODE:Q PAGE: 3 AGENCY CASE-OFFENSE DATE- 04/22/2007 CHARGE 001-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE- 856.011(1) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR 2ND DEG

JUDICIAL- AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COURT (FL0000001J) CHARGE 001 – COURT SEQ COURT NO. -000000XX123333121X00001 SUPPLEMENTAL ARREST DATA- STATUS-LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2NDDEGREE PROSC DATA-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-FL856.011(3) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2ND DEG STATUTE DESCRIPTN-DISORDERLY INTOX- PROS-ACTION-DATE-05/13/2007 ACTION-FILED DISP DATE- 10/28/2007 DISP-DROPPED/ABANDONED

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ARREST- 4 05/06/2007 OBTS NO.-00667788 ARREST AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE POLICE DEPARTMENT (FL1110000)

AGENCY CASE-OFFENSE DATE- 05/06/2007 CHARGE 001-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE- 856.011(1) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR 2ND DEG

JUDICIAL- AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COURT (FL0000001J) CHARGE 001 – COURT SEQ COURT NO. -000000XX123333121X00001 SUPPLEMENTAL ARREST DATA- STATUS-LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2NDDEGREE PROSC DATA-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-FL856.011(3) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2ND DEG STATUTE DESCRIPTN-DISORDERLY INTOX- PROS-ACTION-DATE-06/10/2007 ACTION-FILED DISP DATE- 02/11/2008 DISP-CONVICTED-FINE

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ARREST- 5 06/13/2007 OBTS NO.-00667788 ARREST AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE POLICE DEPARTMENT (FL1110000)

AGENCY CASE-OFFENSE DATE- 06/13/2007 CHARGE 001-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE- 856.011(1) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR 2ND DEG

JUDICIAL- AGENCY-MIAMI-DADE COUNTY COURT (FL0000001J) CHARGE 001 – COURT SEQ COURT NO. -000000XX123333121X00001

--CONTINUED-- SID NUMBER: 32134547 PURPOSE CODE:Q PAGE: 4


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SUPPLEMENTAL ARREST DATA- STATUS-LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2NDDEGREE PROSC DATA-DISORDERLY INTOX- STATUTE/ORDINANCE-FL856.011(3) LEVEL-MISDEMEANOR, 2ND DEG STATUTE DESCRIPTN-DISORDERLY INTOX- PROS-ACTION-DATE-07/02/2007 ACTION-FILED DISP DATE- 04/10/2008 DISP-CONVICTED-PROB/JAIL SENTENCING DATE SENTENCING AGENCY SENTENCE 001 DAYS JAIL; 038 MONTHS PROBATION; FINE

THIS RECORD CONTAINS FLORIDA INFORMATION ONLY. WHEN EXPLANATION OF A CHARGE OR DISPOSITION IS NEEDED, COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY WITH THE AGENCY THAT CONTRIBUTED THE RECORD INFORMATION. THIS RECORD MAY ONLY BE USED FOR THE PURPOSES DEFINED BY FLORIDA STATUTE. THIS CONTAINS FLORIDA RECORD ONLY. UNKNOWN AS TO NATIONAL RECORD STATUS. END OF RECORD --END—

JIS SYSTEMS CHECKED APPRISS: Booking System DHSMV: DAVID Department of Corrections Department of Juvenile Justice System JIS SYSTEMS NOT CHECKED


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Lab Activity 2: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis— Past History Worksheet

1. Are there prior reports involving the department? Record dates and persons in

household: 2009 2012 James Sandler, 5 (ACV) James Sandler, 8 (ACV) Melanie Sandler, 33 (AP) Byron Braun, 1 (alleged child victim) Pam Block, 60 (Significant Other) Melanie Braun 36, (parent in home) Michael Sandler, 35 (Parent Not in Home) Bruce Braun, 29 (AP)

2. For all reports reviewed, summarize maltreatment considerations: • Patterns of alleged maltreatment • Previous findings • Extent of trauma experienced • Marked changes in child or adult functioning • If an FFA was developed, were there any unsafe child determinations?

Patterns of alleged maltreatment: 2009 report was concerned with hazardous living conditions (nasty house with pet stains everywhere) and lack of supervision for 5 year old James (playing in middle of street). First report on family. 2012 - Second report on family. Stepfather reported for “beating up” James. Alcohol abuse was suspected to be a factor. Analysis: There does not appear to be any pattern to the alleged maltreatments. The two reports have different alleged perpetrators and the initial report involved neglect maltreatments while the latter report involved concerns about inflicted physical injuries. Previous findings: All alleged maltreatments were closed with ‘No Indicators” except for Physical Injury to James by his stepfather, which was closed out as ‘Not Substantiated.” The investigation revealed that James was struck across his cheek with an open hand. No injuries resulted. Drinking was not thought to be related to the incident. Extent of trauma experienced: None indicated. Marked changes in child or adult functioning: No changes noted.

FFA/Unsafe Child Determinations?: Not applicable (N/A).


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3. For all reports received, summarize worker safety considerations • Threats or actual violence toward workers in the past N/A • Aggressive or dangerous pets on premises N/A • Criminal history or reported assaultive behavior Current report involves allegation of father being intoxicated prior to or possibly during incident. A prior reporter was also concerned about father’s abuse of alcohol although Substance Misuse was closed out with No Indications. St/F criminal history also contains several charges for public intoxication. CPI may consider bringing along a CPI co-worker or law enforcement partner for first interview. CPI should use caution engaging the stepfather if he appears under the influence while being interviewed. • Need for law enforcement to accompany CPI Discretionary. See above.

4. If there is a child abuse and/or criminal history that suggests any patterns of repetitive, problematic or outright out-of-control conditions in the home?

• Domestic Violence incidents The reporter in the 2012 report mentioned that Mr. Braun “broke the mother Melanie’s arm in the past” but the Investigative Summary did not provide any more information related to this alleged incident. Additionally, when the family violence involves a couple with an intimate relationship, as in the current report, the issue of coercion and control indicative of DV should always be fully considered and assessed. • Unmanaged Mental Illness The 2009 reporter stated that both the mother and grandmother have “some unspecified mental health issues.” The CPI noted that the mother appears “mentally capable of caring for the child” without further elaboration. There is no further mention of how this statement relates to the grandmother. The CPI did note concerns for the child’s biological father’s mental state who reportedly was in a mental institution at the time of the report. The 2012 reporter stated that the mother, Melanie, was Bipolar. This issue is not addressed further in the Investigative Summary. • Substance Abuse or Addictions Dynamics Family and collateral sources deny any connection to the stepfather’s use of alcohol and the incident with James. However, in light of Mr. Braun’s history of disorderly intoxication and the last two reports (2012 and current one) referencing his possible alcohol misuse should justify a much more in-depth look at this issue by the CPI, especially in light of the minimizing, rationalizing and enabling that occurs in families with a family member is addicted to or significantly abusing drugs or alcohol.


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• Household member on probation or parole N/A • Other N/A

5. Based on past reports received, what services and/or interventions have been utilized

in the past? Record dates and services received. 2009 – No services initiated. 2012 – Home based parenting and skill building related to handling James ADHD issues and challenging behaviors recommended.

6. Based on past services and/or interventions received, what information is documented concerning: • Needs to be addressed by service or intervention. • Did parent participate in service? • If parent “successfully completed service” is there any indication of service

efficacy? The Investigative Summary for 2012 does not tell us about successful engagement of services. However in light of the 2014 report alleging continued ineffective interactions between James and his stepfather the CPI would certainly want to obtain information about all three bullets above and incorporate this information into the FFA under child functioning and parenting.

7. What information in the open report differs or conflicts with information contained in prior reports and needs to be updated? (i.e., corroborated or reconciled):

• Changes in Household members since the last report?

Michael Sandler (James’ biological father) should be removed as a subject of the report. He is not a household member and should not be included in the FFA.

• Changes in Parent/Caregivers Responsible for Child since last report? None noted.

• Maltreatments - is there a pattern of out-of-control behavior mentioned in prior reports that the CPI should explore even if not identified in the current report? (e.g., History of DV or Substance Abuse, etc.) Yes, due to the information (note: not findings) in the prior reports the CPI should be very concerned about the correlation between alcohol use and Mr. Braun’s out of control behavior during the most recent incident with James. And, while there are no obvious or direct out-of-control behaviors related to unmanaged mental illness or domestic violence in this report both these issues were at least mentioned in prior reports. Since DV, Substance Misuse, and Unmanaged Mental Health issues tend to be embedded (e.g., pervasive individual or family conditions) a CPI should always be open


April 2015

to the possibility that these issues were not fully or accurately assessed in previous reports and may help explain the out-of control behavior identified in the current report.

• Cultural Considerations or Language Barriers None noted.

• Changes in Child Functioning (Special Child Needs Mentioned in Prior Reports not mentioned in current report, new approaches to address the child’s needs, or new problems identified?) None noted. Conversely however, the issue of James’ ADHD and challenging behaviors continues to be an issue in this family.

• Changes in Adult Functioning (Dynamics mentioned in past reports not mentioned in current; new problems identified) None noted. Conversely however, the possible correlation between Mr. Braun’s drinking and out of control behavior in disciplining James continues to be an issue.

8. Is there any indication of a report in another state, or that the family moved to

Florida from another state? No indication at this time.

9. Given review of prior history, are there any persons who should be contacted and

interviewed to learn more? What would be the purpose? Should such contacts be prior to commencement?

Reporter (Law enforcement responding to scene) to find out if stepfather was subsequently arrested….can he verify stepfather’s current location….clarification on details of events (Melanie and Bruce’s accounts are vastly different, not “slightly different”) what is his sense of what really happened? Contact definitely needed prior to commencement.

CPI who worked 2012 investigation. To explore if he/she had more information or concerns about DV and unmanaged mental health issues that weren’t put down in writing. Contact prior to commencement to the extent practical.

In-home Service Providers who may have engaged and worked with the family as a result of the 2012 investigation. A check of the case notes or progress updates would be essential in knowing what the family did or did not achieve as the result of any previous intervention efforts. Contact prior to commencement to the extent practical.

Trainer Note: Emphasize that if the above information is not obtained prior to commencement further efforts to obtain it as soon as possible is essential to knowing this family’s full story.

10. Are there any other records that should be obtained and reviewed?

Provider service notes who worked with family in 2012. Actual copy of police report. Law Enforcement “Call out” history to home.


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11. Given this review of past information, should the current report response time be

changed? Yes, in light of the seriousness of the incident and not be able to confirm the stepfather’s whereabouts or the fact that he will actually remain out of the home there is concern for James’ immediate safety. Change from 24 to Immediate.

Activity STOP

In reading the current and the prior reports, we have learned much that we want to gather further information about. From a careful study of the prior criminal and child welfare histories and the Intake itself you should begin to appreciate what additional information you need to obtain concerning the various information domains and what information already presented needs to be reconciled or further corroborated. Let’s recap our review and analysis to date (explain the list is not meant to be exclusive but to help them appreciate how important a careful review of known information can lead to the development of follow-up questions to ensure sufficiency of information during the subsequent information gathering stage of the investigation process).

What do you want to know more about at this point and under what information domain does it fall?

Extent of Maltreatment: The written version of the parents accounts vary significantly in terms of how out of control the stepfather’s actions were. The stepfather told law enforcement that he grabbed his stepson’s wrist and shoulders to essentially protect himself, as well as stating that the mother jumped on his back. Melanie’s version has the stepfather grabbing the child’s throat twice and assaulting her twice (i.e., pinned against sliding glass door and slapped in the face and hit one more time while


April 2015

upstairs in James’ bedroom). How does this incident differ in terms of severity from the 2012 prior? (Substantial escalation in force and potential for injury!) Circumstances Surrounding the Maltreatment: Law enforcement reports stepfather did not appear intoxicated but his wife reports he returned home from a bar intoxicated. How much time elapsed between when the stepfather returned home and the incident occurred? How much time elapsed between the incident and when law enforcement finally interviewed the father? Why is this important in terms of the law enforcement officer reporting the stepfather did not appear intoxicated? Child Functioning: Stepfather is on James for both his grades and failure to do his homework quickly enough. What does his teacher report in terms of these being issues? Is just James behavior problematic? How does the teacher respond to James’ problematic behavior (i.e., what works for him/her)? How has James adjusted to having a stepfather? How were the two younger siblings affected by what they witnessed recently? Adult Functioning: Melanie – a prior report mentions an unmanaged mental health condition and the fact that the mother may be bipolar but no other information is supplied to validate or refute these concerns. Bruce – a prior report found no indication of the stepfather abusing alcohol. This intake seems to indicate


April 2015

there may be a much more substantial correlation between alcohol and the stepfather’s out of control behavior than previously recognized. Both parents – a prior report raised the question of domestic violence (but did not fully explore it) alluding to the fact that the stepfather reportedly broke the mother’s arm. What information will you gather to help you differentiate between family violence and domestic violence? Parenting General: This is a blended family. Do the parents have similar expectations for how to parent children? What are the major differences, in any? Behavior Management and Discipline: Did the family engage and complete any work with the in-home parenting service provider from the 2012 report? How do they typically manage James’ behavior when it is problematic? How effective is that technique? What else have they tried? You also have learned more about the family, and have a number of critical decisions to make.


Based upon a review of the available information in an intake, prior history and/or discussion during pre-commencement case consultation activities, the investigator is required by statute to determine if immediate consultation and teamwork with individuals from specific professional disciplines is necessary.


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Consultation with other experts as well as ongoing teamwork is necessary to facilitate the assessment of the family and needed interventions during the investigation. The Safety Methodology Practice Guidelines, Investigations provides guidance about the use of experts during the course of an investigation. Given the many possible challenges and conditions that our families might be experiencing, it is the job of the CPI to know just enough to know when they need to call on an expert. You are not expected to be experts in substance abuse, mental health, domestic violence or developmental disabilities. However, you need to know when you need to understand more about a condition so that you can conduct an interview in a way that is appropriate, and gathers the right information. The different ways in which you will use an expert can vary:

• Is there a condition I need to be more informed about in order to know what to ask and/or do?

• Do I need another professional to accompany me to an interview?

• Do I need an evaluation of a family member from another professional?

• Who are the ongoing team members I need to collaborate with during an investigation?

Activity #3: Name the Professional



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Let’s name the other professionals with expertise we will often

need to call upon. As we do this exercise, let’s discuss what we know at this point about other experts who will be needed in the Sandler case.

Instructions:

Go around the room, asking each participant to add one professional to the list. Be sure to identify the following and briefly discuss when such professional must be involved. Note which professional expertise will be needed for the Sandler case. Discuss whether any experts need to be consulted prior to commencing the investigation.

• Law Enforcement o Criminal investigations o Accompany worker when there are safety concerns o Some jurisdictions require law enforcement to accompany CPI o Sandler Case: Talk to officer who called in the report to learn more about incident prior to commencement.

• Child Protection Team o Briefly discuss their mandated responsibilities o Sandler Case: James will need to be seen/evaluated after commencement if any physical injury is observed to his throat area (re: Injuries to the head, bruises to the neck or head, or fractures in a child of any age – s. 39.303(2), F.S.).

• Substance Abuse professional o Sandler Case: A post commencement referral to a FIS may be appropriate

to determine if Mr. Braun has a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or if the out of control behavior exhibited by Mr. Braun is not likely caused or correlated with the use of alcohol.

• Mental Health professional • Domestic violence • Developmental disabilities • Child development • Medical personnel • Educational professional • Cultural expertise • Other family members (give bonus points for this!)

Activity STOP


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The Information Collection Protocol describes the sequence to be followed when interviewing family members. It should always be assumed that even the best written intakes will never capture all the information that a reporter knows that would assist the CPI in understanding family dynamics and planning the investigation. After reviewing the records of a family with a prior child welfare history or a criminal history, calling the reporter before conducting the interviews is a best practice that almost always is useful to the CPI. The child victim should be the first family member interviewed, followed by the other siblings, or children, in the home. The non-maltreating parent/caregiver should be interviewed after the children. When there is a situation involving family or domestic violence, a review of past history should help determine which family member is likely the person responsible for the violence or pattern of power and control. Most often, the persons responsible for the use of violence and/or other methods of coercive control will be the father or paramour.

Why do you think this sequence of interviews matters?

Endorse and elicit participant feedback and lead discussion of

following points: • Alleged Child Victim

o Will have most dependable information as to what


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happened to them and associated details

o Will reveal the effect of the maltreatment, and beyond any physical injury, how the child felt

o Might reveal who else in the family has been hurt by the maltreating person(s)

o Might reveal important information about family dynamics, adult functioning, parenting and discipline

• Other children in home o May have also been a victim o Will reveal important information about family dynamics

based on their perspective (they may not actually know about maltreatment occurring with a sibling, or parent may have influenced sibling views that victim child is responsible for what happened)

o Will learn whether parenting/discipline is same different for all children in home

o Older children in particular will know more about family dynamics, members and roles, and history than younger children

• Gathering information from all children helps structure the subsequent information gathering with the non-maltreating parent/caregiver or other household member; it is an opportunity to validate information from different household members

• The maltreating parent should not be interviewed until the CPI has gathered as much information as possible from other family members.


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Display Slide 1.1.28 (PG: 62-63)

The CPI must determine, based on review of the current intake and the past history, does this appear to be a present danger situation? Is the response time assigned by the hotline appropriate, or not? A CPI Supervisor has the discretion to change the response time assigned by the hotline. If this does appear to be a present danger situation, is the child at school, a child care setting, home or elsewhere? Given what is known at this point, where is going to be the place that is most conducive for the child’s comfort during the child interview?

What are some of the pros and cons of interviewing a child at school?

Endorse:

• Pro’s o Child might feel safer at school and more willing to

disclose what is happening at home when they are away from the setting where the maltreatment is occurring.

o If they a good relationship with school personnel, that individual’s presence during the interview may also encourage the child to disclose to someone they don’t know or trust (i.e., the CPI).

• Con’s o Parent does not know child is being interviewed, may

feel that their authority is challenged and might be angry at the department in general or CPI in particular.


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o Child may still need to go home and face parent anger as well without an adult to intercede (e.g., “You know you’re not supposed to talk about our family to anyone…why did you do that!”).

You have correctly identified that there are times when it is best for the child to be interviewed at their school. And you have also identified that a parent is likely to be angry that you have interviewed their child without their knowledge. Remember, that parent is going to be the person you interview next.

What might you do to handle this situation?

It is important for the trainer to lead this discussion with participants. Ultimately, the child should be interviewed in the setting where they are most likely to disclose. We know that parents will find out anyway and best practice is helping the parent retain as much control over the situation and authority as is prudent and possible. A further consideration is that there is a present danger threat, such as child sexual abuse. The report comes in in the evening. Would it best for the CPI to go to the child’s home at 10:00 PM to conduct an interview, or would it be better to wait until the next day to interview the child at school? It is very important to note here that these considerations should be made on a case by case basis. Discuss with the class some of the pro’s and con’s of making or delaying a child interview in the above scenario. Things to consider are:

• What is the maltreater’s access to the child? • What is the likelihood harm will occur tonight? Is the report alleging this

occurred last month or that it occurs on a nightly basis? • What is the likelihood the child will disclose tonight? Is the maltreater in

the home? Was the disclosure accidental o purposeful? • Will making contact tonight put the child in further harm? Is there a

possibility of retribution by the maltreater or the non-maltreating parent? Will the child be pressured to recant?

The following points should be covered: • When children are in present danger, there still should be careful

consideration to the child’s need for a safe setting in which to disclose what is


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happening. If going to the home late at night does not seem imperative to child safety (such as children left home unattended), the CPI should immediately consult with a supervisor to determine if the child interview may be delayed until the next day when child is at school.

• When a child is going to be seen at school or another setting, the CPI should make all effort to interview the non-maltreating parent before the child returns to the home.

• To help diffuse hostility or outright anger, let the non-maltreating parent know CPI is required to make unannounced visits and child safety concerns necessitated the interview to be held at school.

• If the child is going to be interviewed at home, let the parent know that CPI will discuss the situation with them immediately following the child interview – to let them know what is happening and why.

• Ask parent is there anything the CPI should know about child before speaking with him/her?

• If child is extremely shy ask parent to encourage the child to talk with the CPI.

In the next activity you will determine how the pre-commencement work completed on the Sandler case should inform how we conduct our investigative activities, the response time, location of the child interview and other interviewing considerations.

Lab Activity 4: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis—Decisions Related to Commencement

Display Slide 1.1.29 (PG: 64-65)

Trainer instructions for exercise: • Have participants work in small groups to complete the worksheet for

Decisions Related to Commencement in their PG. • After the small groups have completed the worksheet, process each item as a


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large group.

Lab Activity 4: Pre-Commencement Information Analysis— Decisions Related to Commencement Worksheet

1. Does this report require an FFA or an “Other” investigation?

FFA. All maltreatment is alleged to have been caused by a parent in the same household where the child resides.

2. If this intake requires an FFA, which household members will be

the focus of the FFA? All children in the home and both the biological mother (Melanie) and James’ stepfather (Mr. Braun).

3. What further information might be obtained from the reporter prior to commencement to assist in the investigation? It is essential to know Mr. Braun’s whereabouts and whether there is an on-going criminal investigation.

4. Which individuals mentioned in the intake are likely to have the most credible/reliable information? Generally, children are the most reliable reporters of information unless they have been threatened by an adult about sharing information. James being the oldest child and direct victim is likely to have the most reliable information of any child in the home. Melanie, the non-maltreating parent is next likeliest to disclose the most information about events. Information obtained directly from Bruce, the maltreating parent, needs to be carefully scrutinized for two reasons. First, he may be facing criminal charges as a result and therefore be reluctant to report what really happened. Secondly, the state and degree of his alcohol intoxication could have a very strong effect on what he actually remembers from that night’s events.

5. Which individuals not specifically referenced in the report are likely to have first-hand knowledge of the maltreatment incident? The maternal grandmother may have witnessed interactions between family members prior to Mr. Braun leaving for his mother’s home. She may have witnessed additional out of control behavior not reported by the law enforcement officer. Depending upon the distance between homes in the neighborhood and how loud the altercation was neighbors may be able to report how long the incident lasted and anything else they may have overheard while it


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was occurring.

6. Which individuals are likely to know the family well enough to provide information on child and adult functioning, general parenting and disciplinary and behavior management practices? Both grandmother’s appear to have significant roles in their children and grandchildren’s live and are likely to be able to provide significant information related to both child and adult functioning. School personnel are an absolute must for information on James academic progress and classroom behavior.

7. What is the sequence of parent/caregiver interviews to be conducted? James (8) oldest child victim Byron (3) at least attempt an interview realizing he may not have sufficient language development to be productive (consider use of drawings to obtain more information) Melanie - non-maltreating parent Bruce - maltreating parent

Activity STOP


At any point during the pre-commencement preparation, the CPI may request a supervisory case consultation. Supervisors are there to assist CPIs through-out the life of any investigation with information analysis and decision making. Until you achieve certification, case consultation should be provided to you by a supervisor or other child welfare professional on all of your intakes prior to commencement.


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A case consultation by a supervisor, or pre-commencement staffing, is an excellent way to summarize what you have learned, the major issues that will need information development and assessment, and any questions as to local operating procedures such as how to obtain an initial consultation with a domestic violence expert, or how to make a referral to the local Child Protection Team. You will certainly want to discuss any personal safety concerns you have, and any suggestions as to having another professional available during the first interview. A face-to-face or telephonic consultation with the supervisor is required when:

• An intake involves life threatening injuries or a child fatality. • An intake indicates potential danger to the investigator. • An intake contains notable participants

(department/CBC/sheriff staff/public officials or celebrities, etc.).


During the initial labs, we discussed the common errors in decision making that need constant self-awareness and due diligence on the part of the CPI.

What is the self-check that you want to do after you have reviewed the intake and any prior case or other information received?

Endorse and elicit all of the following points:

• Do not make premature conclusions about caregivers and


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families • Examine any personal assumptions that may be prejudicial in

nature (e.g. sexism, ageism, stigmatism, stereo-typing) • Confirmation Bias—looking for information to support a

view rather than refute it • Over-Confidence Bias (faith in intuition, prior knowledge of

family, incomplete information) • Any bias, assumptions, over-confidence has the potential to

impact our behavior, which has the potential to inspire resistance in the family members to be interviewed.

• Be non-judgmental and open to learning from the family.

Given what we know about the Sandler family thus far, what family dynamics might result in personal assumptions or premature conclusions?

Endorse and elicit:

• Mental illness may impact a person’s rational thinking. • Substance abuse is moral problem, not a disease. • Paramours are always trouble. • The child has a “smart mouth.”

It is important to understand the impact that mental illness or substance abuse might have on parental functioning. That said, it is equally important to be open to information gathering that might support or refute that a family condition is operating at such a level of severity that parental protective capacities are diminished, and a child is unsafe. Never underestimate the impact that our personal biases and assumptions can have, one way or another, during information collection and analysis.


cpi practice application lab 1: pre-commencement...

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