Child Abuse

A babysitter notifies Child Protective Services (CPS) that a five-month old child she looks after is not acting normal. CPS is familiar with the family from previous allegations of neglect by the neighbors. Mother is a single mom who has a live-in boyfriend who is a known drug user by the police. The social worker responds to the house and notices the child is very lethargic and calls for an ambulance. The child is transported to the hospital and is diagnosed with Shaken Baby Syndrome. Unfortunately, the child dies. The attending physician notifies the police. The medical examiner takes jurisdiction of the deceased child and performs an autopsy which discloses subdural hematoma, retinal hemorrhages, along with bruises and fractures of varying ages. The medical examiner determines the manner of death is homicide. Law enforcement initiates their investigation and coordinates with the District Attorney. Describe in detail each agencies responsibility in completing the investigation along with the legal process in the prosecution of the perpetrator.