Agenda Date: 5/21/2019
Subject:
Title
Resolution 26-2019: Approving a Memorandum of Understanding between the Littleton Police Department and the Arapahoe County Department of Human Services regarding procedures for investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect
Body
Presented By:
Doug Stephens, Chief of Police
POLICY QUESTION:
Does city council support a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Littleton Police Department (LPD) and Arapahoe County Human Services that outlines the processes for the investigation of allegations of child abuse and neglect?
BACKGROUND:
The LPD has been part of a multi-agency MOU with Arapahoe County Human Services for a number of years that addresses the protocols for cooperation, language, and criteria for identification of suspected abuse, and responsibility for investigations involving allegations of child abuse and neglect. This MOU is a renewal of the current MOU and will cover the period from 7/1/2019 - 6/30/2023.
PRIOR ACTIONS OR DISCUSSIONS:
None
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The proposed MOU is a renewal of the existing agreement which has proven beneficial for all parties in the efficient and effective investigation of allegations of child abuse and neglect. Arapahoe County Human Services is a valuable partner with law enforcement in these complex investigations and the protocols outlined in the MOU have proven successful in assisting victims of these crimes utilizing multi-disciplinary teams.
OPTIONS/ALTERNATIVES:
The 18th Judicial District Attorney's Office requires the LPD to utilize Arapahoe County Human Services as part of a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) for the investigation of cases of alleged child abuse or neglect. Should the LPD choose not to participate with Arapahoe County Human Services, criminal cases would be less likely to be accepted for prosecution by the District Attorney.
FISCAL IMPACTS:
This MOU places no additional financial burden on the city since these investigatory processes are part of th...
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