Cross-Reporting Among Agencies That Respond to Child Abuse and Neglect - Arizona

Date: February 2021

Cross-Reporting Between Child Protective Services and Law Enforcement

Citation: Rev. Stat. § 13-3620

When reports are received by a peace officer, the officer shall immediately notify the Department of Child Safety (DCS). Notwithstanding any other statute, when DCS receives these reports, it shall immediately notify a peace officer in the appropriate jurisdiction.

Other Reporting Requirements

Citation: Admin. Code R21-3-203; Pol. & Proc. Man., Ch. 6, § 2

If a communication does not meet criteria for a DCS report, the intake specialist shall forward the information or allegations of abuse or neglect to the following:

  • The appropriate law enforcement agency concerning a felony criminal offense against a child
  • The DCS Office of Licensing and Regulation if the communication involves a DCS-licensed out-of-home placement
  • The appropriate child protection agency if the child lives in another jurisdiction
  • The appropriate licensing or certifying agency if a child is at a State-licensed or certified child care home or facility
  • The appropriate licensing agency if a child is at a State-licensed behavioral health facility
  • The Arizona Department of Economic Security Adult Protective Services if the alleged victim is older than age 18

In policy: If an Indian child, regardless of his or her residence or domicile, is in present or impending danger of severe physical damage or harm, DCS shall provide emergency intervention to ensure the child's safety. DCS shall engage the child's family and Indian Tribe to the greatest extent possible in planning for voluntary interventions that minimize DCS intrusion while ensuring the safety of the Indian child. DCS shall provide services that ensure the health and safety of Indian children while protecting their cultural heritage to the greatest extent possible.

Within 48 hours of the child being taken into custody, DCS shall make diligent efforts to contact the social services program of the Indian child's tribe (if known) to do the following:

  • Notify the Tribe that the child is in DCS custody
  • Explore available services of the Tribe that may address the safety needs of the child
  • Assist the parent to retain custody of the child

DCS shall explore with the Tribe whether the Tribe will accept responsibility for the child.

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