Child Protection Investigation Specialist (CPIS) Practice Exam

What details must be documented along with photographs taken during an investigation?

1. Date, location, and involved parties

2. Name of the child and witnesses present

3. Child's age, SCR #, and time of day

4. Date, time, location, name of child, SCR #, and who was present

The correct answer is: Date, time, location, name of child, SCR #, and who was present

Documenting the date, time, location, name of the child, SCR number, and individuals present during an investigation is essential for maintaining a comprehensive record. This detailed documentation serves several critical purposes. Firstly, including the date and time provides a timeline of events, which can be crucial in understanding the context and sequence of actions taken. It assists investigators and other professionals in grasping when specific incidents occurred, which can be pivotal in establishing the chronology of events related to child safety. Secondly, documenting the location is vital for understanding the environment in which incidents happened and can provide insights into factors that may affect the child's safety and well-being. Furthermore, including the name of the child ensures clarity regarding who is involved in the investigation, minimizing confusion about the individuals being discussed. Tracking the State Central Registry (SCR) number is important in identifying specific cases within larger systems, leading to better case management and follow-up. Finally, noting who was present during the investigation, including witnesses or family members, adds depth to the documentation, enhancing the reliability of testimonies presented and potentially serving as additional evidence. This level of detail guarantees that all relevant information is captured, facilitating informed decision-making and recommendations, which is critical in child protection investigations.