PURPOSE: This rule defines the investigation procedure used when the relationship of the subject of a report of child abuse or neglect to the Children’s Division is such that a conflict of interest may occur.

1. (1) Definitions.

   1. (A) Out-of-Home Investigation Unit-The unit of investigators responsible for investigating child abuse and neglect when the child is in an out-of-home setting. 13 CSR 35-31

2. (2) The following categories of persons, when reported as either the victim or alleged perpetrator of child abuse or neglect, may be considered to have such a relationship to the Children’s Division that a thorough investigation might be hindered by a conflict of interest:

   1. (A) An employee of the Children’s Division, the Department of Social Services central office or other Department of Social Services employees located in a Children’s Division office;
   2. (B) The immediate family or household member of that employee; or
   3. (C) Children placed in foster care and in the custody of the Children’s Division when the alleged perpetrator is a licensed foster parent. These calls will be investigated by the Out-of-Home Investigation Unit.
3. (3) Reports of abuse or neglect involving those persons, either as victims or perpetrators, shall be made to the Child Abuse and Neglect Unit in the central office of the Children’s Division. The Child Abuse and Neglect Unit will assign the report to the Children’s Division county/circuit staff selected by the regional office to initiate and conduct the investigation.

AUTHORITY: section 207.020, RSMo Supp. 2014.* This rule originally filed as 13 CSR 40-31.011. Original rule filed March 7, 1984, effective June 11, 1984. Moved to 13 CSR 35- 31.015 and amended: Filed July 29, 2015, effective Feb. 29, 2016. *Original authority: 207.020, RSMo 1945, amended 1961, 1965, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1986, 1993, 2014.