NCJ Number
178663
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 47 Issue: 4 Dated: April 1999 Pages: 55-58
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the advantages of teamwork between law enforcement and agencies dedicated to child protection.
Abstract
Many social workers visit dangerous addresses, with no back up, because they do not have access to police information. The freedom of information legislation and some officers’ reluctance to share data restricts the social workers’ access to information that could be vital to their missions. Social workers may tamper with police evidence because nobody told them what the evidence requirements are. Police may compromise the social workers’ case by making unexpected arrests or disclosures. Misunderstandings and injuries occur. Communications, teamwork and contingency planning can make joint investigations safer and more effective. Teamwork is vital to the effort to protect children and break the cycles of domestic violence.