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 id abuse/neglect occurred; identify the abuser/neglector; and provide services to prevent recurrence. Joint investigations with law enforcement and/or regulatory authorities, in accordance with local protocols, any 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.
