Most investigations led by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) involve allegations of abuse or neglect at home. However, there are also times when these allegations involve acts on school grounds.
Ridgefield teachers in DCF investigations can be the target of abuse allegations, and they can also be at risk of violating mandated reporting laws. In either case, Mark Sherman Law is here to help. Our dedicated attorneys can advise you of your options.
The law requires DCF to investigate every credible report of neglect or abuse involving a child. While this usually involves allegations against family members, agents will not hesitate to look into claims made against teachers as well. DCF typically begins an investigation within 72 hours of receiving a report, but they will act faster in cases where it appears a child is in danger.
DCF has a specialized unit to investigate allegations against teachers in their professional capacity. Licensed social workers, as part of the Education Professional Investigation Unit, have dedicated training to investigate abuse in an educational setting.
During an investigation, agents will contact the suspected teacher. This generally occurs without giving any warning that an investigation is pending. Agents will also speak to co-workers and the child’s family members to substantiate the allegations.
Being under investigation does not necessarily mean you will be fired immediately. However, you can expect DCF agents to notify your employer about the investigation shortly after it commences. It is common for schools to place faculty members on leave during the investigation. If the investigators substantiate the allegations, you can expect the termination of your employment right away. The good news is that an attorney in Ridgefield can help you fight back during DCF teacher investigations, potentially avoiding this outcome.
If allegations of abuse are substantiated against a teacher, the first step is likely the termination of their employment. DCF investigators can also recommend criminal charges for a teacher, at which point local prosecutors in Ridgefield will take over the case.
In addition to being fired, teachers will also typically lose their accreditation. Both the school district and the state licensing board are notified at the onset of an investigation and its conclusion. There will be an opportunity to appeal the substantiation against you, however.
Not all investigations into teachers involve allegations of abuse or neglect. Teachers are mandated reporters, which means they can also face an investigation from DCF if they do not notify the authorities when they suspect child abuse.
As a teacher, you must report your suspicions within 12 hours of discovering this information. You can report directly to law enforcement, or you can call the 24-hour DCF hotline. In addition to the immediate notification, you are also required to submit a written report within a matter of days.
There are criminal consequences that come with not reporting these allegations. Given the risks involved, it is vital that you talk to a lawyer in Ridgefield about DCF investigating teachers.
If you are facing accusations of abuse or failure to report suspected neglect, your career in the educational field can be in jeopardy. Furthermore, you may also be charged with a serious criminal offense that can follow you for the rest of your life.
Mark Sherman Law is here to answer questions about Ridgefield teachers in DCF investigations. We have helped many professionals deal with these investigations; read some of our 300+ verified reviews from satisfied past clients on Avvo. Contact us today to learn how our team of attorneys can help.
