HCS/HB 932 - This act allows prosecuting attorneys to develop multidisciplinary adult protection teams that protect elderly and other dependent persons from abuse. A "multidisciplinary adult protection team" is defined as a team of two or more persons trained in the investigation, prosecution, prevention, identification, and treatment of abuse of vulnerable, elderly, or disabled persons and are qualified to provide a broad range of services to these individuals. The act specifies that the prosecuting or circuit attorney shall use the team to investigate and prosecute an offender and to supplement any protective services by the Department of Health and Senior Services.
Adult protection personnel responding to a report under these provisions shall contact law enforcement upon receipt of a report involving a potential crime, provide law enforcement with a detailed description of the report, and request the assistance of law enforcement in investigating the complaint. If law information is unable to assist they must provide the division with a written explanation within 24 hours.
The act includes provisions for coordination and non-duplication of services between other offices and departments. This act specifies that reports made are confidential and shall not be a public record. The agencies and departments that may have access to a report are specified in the act.
SARAH HASKINS