Which of the following is a step in the child maltreatment referral process?

• A. Law enforcement must investigate and refer the case to the appropriate county department
• B. Ignore the report
• C. Wait for several days
• D. Only notify the school

Answer: (A)

When a report of suspected child maltreatment is made, a coordinated response is essential. Law enforcement plays a key role in the investigation and, when appropriate, refers the case to the county department responsible for protective services. This ensures the child’s immediate safety is assessed and that services are arranged if needed. The county department then screens the report and determines whether a formal investigation is warranted, potentially working with law enforcement as needed.

Choosing to ignore, wait, or notify only the school bypasses the mandated reporting process and can leave a child at ongoing risk. The correct step reflects the required, collaborative referral pathway: law enforcement investigates as needed and refers the case to the appropriate county department for protective services to take the next actions.