Reporter Narrative - University of Wisconsin–Madison Narrative . Name – Worker Kate Watel Name...

**TRAINING CASE EXAMPLE

Reporter Narrative

Name – Worker Kate Watel Name – Reporter Jamie Robelson

Relationship/Position Social Worker, St. Joseph’s Hospital

Address (Street, City, State Zip Code) 2233 Sunset Court

Telephone 823-7565

Affiliation: Social worker at St. Joseph’s hospital where Samantha was taken for evaluation and treatment. Reason for Calling: Suspicion of physical abuse; Samantha brought to ER for medical evaluation and treatment; parents report not knowing how child sustained injury or who caused it. Medical evaluation indicates that injury was caused by non-accidental means. Document the Reporter's motivation and source of information, if possible: Mandated reporter. Direct observation –spoke with treating medical providers, both parents and grandparents. Reporter’s opinion about needed actions and child’s safety: Needs to be investigated due to seriousness of injury and unknown cause or who injured infant. Worker’s opinion of reporter’s credibility: Mandated reporter; also seems appropriately concerned about Samantha. Additional comments:


CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE REPORT

Case Name Worker Safety Concerns Report Number Jennifer Cahill Yes x No xxxxxx Date and Time Report Received CPS Report Type County 09/10/xx 8:15AM Primary Name - Worker Name - Supervisor Kate Watel Susan Sup I. Family Information Name - Family Telephone Number - Home Jennifer Cahill 282-1234 Address - Street Apt. No. City / Town State Zip Code 414 Brook Street Our Town WI 55555 Primary Language: English Interpreter Needed: Yes X No

Directions to House Off Prairie Ridge Road A. Household Members Name Role Relationship DOB Age Gender Race

Jennifer Cahill Michael Cahill Samantha Cahill

PN PN AV

Mother Father Child

June 2/14 7/28

23 24 0

F M F

W W W

AV = Alleged Victim A = Asian or Pacific Islander HM = Household Member B = Black NM = Non-Household Member I = American Indian / Alaskan Native PN = Parent / Parental Role P = Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander RN = Report Name U = Unable to Determine W = White Information that the child may have American Indian heritage, including names of tribe(s) if known. none B. Parent(s) Not in Home / Other Non-Household Members Name Relationship Address Telephone No. DOB Gender Race

C. Alleged Maltreatment Alleged Victim Relationship to Victim A/N Code Description F Samantha Cahill Biological Child

Physical Abuse Dislocation/Sprain/Bone

Fracture No

**TRAINING CASE EXAMPLE of 5

F = Fatality D. Location of Incident Address - Street Apt. No. City / Town State Zip Code 414 Brook Street Our Town WI Telephone Number - Home Telephone Number - Work Date and Time of Alleged A / N 282-1234 E. Contacts / Others with Information About Family

Dr. Maske: pediatrician (unable to get her records this weekend) Bill Cahill: paternal grandfather Jan and Alan Johnson: maternal grandparents

II. Narrative

a. Describe alleged maltreatment: current and past; the surrounding circumstances; and the frequency or intervention or services needed for the child.

Caller reported that Samantha had been brought to St. Joseph’s ER at 6:00AM on 09-10 due to a pained cry and was inconsolable. X-rays were done which showed several fractures: left tibia bucket handle fracture (lower right edge of bone by ankle) and a right proximal tibia corner fracture (top of bone below the knee) The leg was splinted and Samantha was taken to the University Hospital for further testing. Parents reported last Wednesday, 9/07, Samantha was fussy so they contacted an on call nurse. The nurse advised them that Samantha may be having trouble with gas due to switching formula. Parents were instructed to move Samantha’s legs in a bicycle movement to help with the gas. On Friday night, Michael put Samantha to bed around 9:30PM. She woke up around 2:00 AM and both parents report the cry was very different. They tried to console her, but couldn’t. They tried the bicycle motion, but it seemed to make it worse. Around 5:00AM they called the on call nurse who advised them to come into the ER. Both parents brought Samantha to the hospital. b. Describe the child(ren)’s injury or conditions as a result of the alleged maltreatment or services

needed. Left distal tibia bucket handle fracture (lower edge of the bone by the ankle) and a right proximal tibia corner fracture (top of bone below the knee)

c. Describe the child(ren)’s current location, school/daycare including dismissal time, functioning,

including special needs, if any, and highlighting current vulnerability. Samantha is 6 weeks old and has been primarily at home with her mother who will be on family leave for another two weeks. Samantha is currently in the hospital and will remain there pending CPS response. Due to age, injury and unknown maltreater or cause of injury, Samantha is very vulnerable.

DESCRIBE ANY PRESENT DANGER THREATS, INCLUDING A DESCRIPTION OF POSSIBLE OR LIKELY EMERGENCY (EXIGENT ) CIRCUMSTANCES

d. The child has multiple/different kinds of injuries Samantha has a left tibia bucket handle fracture (lower right edge of bone by ankle) and a right proximal tibia corner fracture (top of bone below the knee)


e. Severe to extreme maltreatment of the child is suspected, observed or confirmed:

Multiple fractures to a 1.5 month old child with no explanation as to how they occurred or who caused them. Per medical professionals, this is a non-accidental injury.

f. Unexplained injury: Neither parent is able to provide an explanation of what or who caused Samantha’s bone fractures; both deny causing harm to her.

g. Document relevant information from CPS history, CCAP and Sex Offender Reverse Address

checks. (If no information found, document that checks were completed) SACWIS: no record. CCAP: no record h. Describe when the alleged maltreater will have access to the child.

It is unknown who the maltreater is; however, it is possible one or both parents maltreated Samantha and they have current and continual access to her. If it is a grandparent, they have had regular contact with Samantha since her birth; the families visit often, grandparents care for Samantha on occasion and there is no indication that this would change. Samantha is being treated at the ER and then can be released pending approval from CPS

i. Describe changes in circumstances that may make it difficult to fulfill CPS responsibilities. None known or anticipated at this time.

j. Describe presence of domestic violence, if applicable, including the demonstration of power and control and entitlement within the home. None known by reporter.

k. Describe how the family may respond to intervention by the agency, including the parental protective capacities. Family has been cooperative in talking with hospital personnel. Reporter states that parents seem appropriately concerned; mom cried, dad upset, angry at times, but willing to talk with reporter, even after being informed that CPs would be called about the injury.

THE FOLLOWING SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR ALLEGED MALTREATMENT BY PRIMARY CAREGIVER OR PARENTAL CONTRIBUTION TO THE MALTREATMENT: l. Describe the parents or adults in the parental role: current location, functioning, and parenting

practices and views of child(ren). Both parents are currently at St. Joseph’s ER with Samantha. Both seem appropriately concerned about the care of their daughter, saying repeatedly, they have no idea how this could have happened. Mom has been intermittently crying and dad asking many questions of the doctor about how this could have happened to Samantha. Parents both report that Samantha has been a pretty easy going baby; fussy within the last 2 weeks, seems to be experiencing some difficulty around feeding times so recently switched her formula.


m. Describe the family functioning, strengths and current stressors. Large supportive family, most live in the area. Parents have been on the phone with both sets of grandparents since arriving at ER. No apparent financial stress.

DESCRIBE THE POSSIBLE OR LIKELY IMPENDING THREATS TO CHILD SAFETY None reported or identified at Access.

n. Document the name of the alleged maltreater and relationship to child. Unknown. Both parents deny causing injury to child or knowing who did. Both parents have been primary caretakers of child; both sets of grandparents have also provided care recently.

III. Agency Response A. Supervisor Screening Decision Decision Date / Time Decision was Made Screen In 9/10/xx 8:30AM Response Time Reason Same Day Screen In CA/N Primary Explain IA social worker assigned to respond to ER along with LE to assess for Present Danger. B. X Yes No Law Enforcement Notified X Yes No After Hours Report

IV. Signatures

SIGNATURE - Worker Date Signed

SIGNATURE - Supervisor Date Signed


Cahill : Summary of Initial Contact Notes: 09-10-XX

Case Narrative:

Social Worker Steven’s and Officer Jacobson met with Michael and Jenny Cahill, separately in a family meeting room at St. Joseph’s ER.

Both parents say they have no idea how Samantha was injured or who would have done something to hurt her. Both parents recount the same information leading up to them bringing her into the ER:

Jenny said that she has been home for 6 weeks on family leave with Samantha. She has been a pretty easy going baby until recently when she has been getting fussy at different times throughout the day. Recently they seem to notice this is occurring when Samantha eats. Jenny has taken Samantha in for all her well baby checkups and has talked to the doctor’s office regarding the change in Samantha. They have recently switched her formula as the doctor thought perhaps the formula was causing gas. Jenny called an on call nurse on Wed (9/07) night as Samantha was particularly fussy and they didn’t know what to do. The nurse instructed Jenny and Michael to move Samantha’s legs in a bicycle movement to help with the gas. Samantha continued to be fussy off and on since then. On Friday night, Michael put Samantha to bed around 9:30PM. She woke up screaming around 12:30AM; this cry was very different from her usual. Jenny said that both she and Michael tried to console Samantha, but couldn’t. They tried the bicycle motion, but it seemed to make it worse. Around 3:15AM Jenny called the on call nurse who advised them to come into the ER. She and Michael brought Samantha to the hospital.

Jenny indicated that aside from herself, Michael, her parents and Michael’s father have been the only ones to care for Samantha. Michael has been very helpful and took off the first 2 weeks after she had Samantha; he has gotten up in the night a few times by himself to feed Samantha so Jenny could get some sleep. Although he sometimes seems tired the next day and expresses some frustration over the recent change in Samantha’s behavior, she thinks it is more because he is concerned with how Samantha is feeling versus being aggravated or bothered by her behaviors.. Jenny has never seen Michael be rough with Samantha, nor does she think he would ever harm her, even if frustrated. Her parents have watched Samantha on 3 occasions; once was so she and Michael could do some shopping, once so they could go out to eat (could not remember the exact dates, but said it would have been within the last 3 weeks) and then last Saturday for 6 hours when they went to a friend’s wedding. Her mother and father are both thrilled to finally have a grandchild and dote on Samantha; they have never reported problems in caring for her. She does not believe they did or could hurt Samantha. Michael’s father Bill watched Samantha last week, on Wednesday when Michael had to work and she had to go to the doctor. It was during a time that Samantha was typically sleeping so she didn’t want to have to wake her or take her out. Bill said that Samantha slept the majority of the time and he just changed and held her after she woke up; no report of problems with her.


Michael reported the same information as Jenny did regarding Samantha’s history and the circumstances leading up to bringing Samantha to the hospital.

Michael said that although he does not have much experience with babies, he thinks Samantha has been a pretty typical baby; she cries when she is hungry, needs her diaper changed or wants to be held. He feels that Jenny has been somewhat hyper vigilant in responding to Samantha’s cries and she worries that maybe it is not normal and something is wrong with her. Michael thinks this is natural for a new mom to worry about. He said that Jenny has been kind of tired so he tries to get up and do some of the feeding at night so Jenny can get some rest. He said it has been somewhat harder on him as on those nights he is often more tired the next day for work, but says it is nothing too bad. He said that he feels bad when Samantha cries and he does not know how to fix it for her.

Michael shared the same information regarding his father and Jenny’s parents caring for Samantha.

He is upset that anyone would think that he, Jenny or their parents would hurt Samantha. He seems equally upset that anyone would hurt her and has no idea who would or could have.

Determination of Present Danger:

Injury: Samantha has a “buckle handle” fracture on her left distial tibia (lower edge of the bone by ankle) and a right proximal tibia corner fracture (top of bone, below the knee). The doctor reports that the fractures could only be caused by extreme force due to the type of fracture as well as Samantha’s age (6 weeks old) and having very bendable, flexible bones at this age. Samantha’s leg was splinted. Discharge plan: Samantha can be released, needs to return to hospital for further testing: genetic and metabolic tests to determine if there are other possible causes for the injury

Assessment Decision:

Present Danger Identified at Initial Contact:

The child has multiple/different kinds of injuries. This remains a present danger threat from Access. Samantha has two fractured bones. Severe to extreme maltreatment of the child is suspected, observed or confirmed. This remains a present danger threat from Access. Per medical personnel, these fractures could only have been caused by extreme force. The child has unexplained injuries. This remains a present danger threat from Access. Neither parent is able to provide an explanation of what nor who harmed Samantha. The injury is significant and according to the doctor was inflicted by non-accidental means.


Negotiation of Protective Plan:

Social Worker Steven’s explained the agency’s decision that Samantha is not safe due to the injury and unexplained cause of it, as well as not knowing who caused the injury. The parents were informed that they would not be able to take Samantha home and care for her by themselves; that alternative care would need to be arranged until CPS was able to meet with them further in order to understand if the family was in need of any protection or services. Both parents seem to understand the seriousness of the injury to Samantha and want to know what happened to her. Both parents are understandably upset: their child is hurt, they do not know who did it and CPS is not allowing them to care for Samantha on their own or have unsupervised contact with her. They continue to deny hurting her or knowing how she was injured.

Explore Protective Plan Options:

Jenny and Michael were adamant that Samantha not be placed in foster care; both reported having strong family connections in the area and wanted her to feel safe and loved and cared for. Understanding that Samantha could not go to her parent’s or his father’s home either, Jenny and Michael identified two other relatives in the area who were potential placements: Jenny’s grandmother Carol Johnson or Michael’s sister and husband, Cheryl and John Balke. Because of her age, Jenny and Michael thought it would be better for Samantha to stay with Cheryl and John. They have 2 children of their own; Trevor who is in kindergarten and Cassie who is one and a half years old. Cheryl stays home to care for Cassie, knows Samantha and they believe will be very willing to help out.

Conversation with Cheryl and John:

Michael called his sister, explained the situation and asked if she would be willing to take Samantha and care for her until they could get everything figured out with CPS. Cheryl agreed and spoke to this worker on the phone. Cheryl said she was shocked that anyone would hurt Samantha and could not imagine her brother or Jenny doing something like this to her. She was equally surprised that anyone would think that her parents or Michael’s dad would do this too. While she did not believe that any of them would harm Samantha, she said she understood CPS’s concerns and their need to do their job and would work with CPS as well as her brother and Jenny to do whatever needed to be done to care for Samantha.

Protective Plan:

Cheryl and John Balke will provide 24/7 care for Samantha in their home until further assessment information indicates plan is no longer needed or can be revised or is no longer needed. See Completed Protective Plan in the case file for plan specifics.

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Division of Safety and Permanence *TRAINING CASE EXAMPLE

Protective Plan Case Name (Last, First, MI) Cahill, Jennifer

Case Number XXXXXXX

Date Protective Plan Completed 09-10-XX

List each child included in the Protective Plan, including their location Samantha Cahill: Currently staying with paternal aunt and uncle: Cheryl & John Balke home, 3552 Cedar Trail.

PRESENT DANGER THREATS TO SAFETY Maltreatment

The child is currently being maltreated at the time of the report or contact. x Severe to extreme maltreatment of the child is suspected / observed / confirmed. x The child has multiple / different kinds of injuries.

The child has injuries to the face or head. x The child has unexplained injuries.

The maltreatment demonstrates bizarre cruelty. The maltreatment of several victims is suspected / observed / confirmed. The maltreatment appears premeditated. Dangerous (life threatening) living arrangements are present.

Child Parent’s viewpoint of child is bizarre. Child is unsupervised and unable to care for self. Child needs medical attention. Child is profoundly fearful of the home situation or people within the home.

Parent Parent is intoxicated (alcohol or other drugs) now or is consistently under the influence. Parent is out-of-control (mental illness or other significant lack of control). Parent is demonstrating bizarre behaviors. Parent is acting dangerous now or is described as dangerous. Parents are unable or unwilling to perform basic care now. Parent’s whereabouts are unknown. One or both parents overtly reject intervention.

Family The family may flee. The family hides the child. The child is subject to present / active domestic violence.

No Present Danger Threats to Safety Identified.

Describe the caregivers / providers that will be used; e.g., reliability, commitment, availability. How was this confirmed? Cheryl & John Balke, paternal aunt and uncle will care for Samantha. Cheryl and John have frequent contact with Jenny and Michael and have been involved with Samantha since her birth. Although they say they cannot see either parent harming Samantha, they love her and want what’s best for her and want to care for her so she is not placed in foster care. They are upset that someone has hurt Samantha and want to find out what happened so it does not happen again. Social worker Steven’s met with Cheryl and John in their home to discuss the protective plan, including the needed care and arrangements for Samantha. They are willing and able to care for Samantha as long as needed. Cheryl is a stay at home mother with her own one and a half year old daughter; able to care for an infant and still has all of her own baby equipment to use (pack-n-play, swing, car seat, clothes) to supplement things that may be needed for Samantha. John works full time outside the home, but is helpful and supportive with the children when he is home and is willing and able to share in the care of Samantha while she is with them. A CPS and law enforcement check reveals no records for Cheryl or John. Carol Wagner paternal grandmother will provide care for Samantha two days per week. Social Worker Stevens spoke with Carol who said she is wiling to help care for baby Samantha. She is clear that neither parent, nor any grandparent’s are allowed contact with Samantha while she is caring for her at Cheryl and John’s house. She reports she is in good health and physically able to care for an infant. It has been a while since she has taken care of an infant and is not familiar with Samantha’s schedule, so she will work with Cheryl on Samantha’s routine and needs during the time she will be caring for her. She does not anticipate any problems in enforcing the protective plan or providing

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needed care for Samantha. If any problems arise with Samantha’s care, she is able to contact Cheryl for assistance or CPS or law enforcement if there is a problem in supporting the Protective Plan.

Describe how the Protective Plan will control identified threat(s) to each child’s safety, including the name(s) and telephone number(s) of Responsible / Protective Adults(s) related to each protective action and their relationship to the family. Describe the actions / services, including the frequency and duration. The injury to Samantha is severe; caused by “extreme force.” Because it is not known how the injury to Samantha was caused or who caused it, she will not be allowed any unsupervised contact with the 5 adults who have provided care for her since her birth; her mother Jenny, father Michael, maternal grandparents, Jan and Alan Johnson and paternal grandfather, Bill Cahill. Cheryl and John will provide care for Samantha 24/7; the 5 individuals above are allowed supervised contact only. This contact can only be supervised by Cheryl or John, unless otherwise approved in advance by CPS. Cheryl and John’s phone number is 867-5309. Location and duration of contact is to be agreed upon by Cheryl, John, parents and grandparents. Parents and grandparents are able to hold Samantha, feed and provide care to her, but Cheryl or John must be in the same room at all times. Carol Wagner, Michael’s mother, will provide care for Samantha on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3 at Cheryl’s house while Cheryl and her daughter Cassie are at a mother/daughter play group at the library in town. Carol’s phone number is 868-5123.

Describe access of alleged maltreater and parent / caregiver to the child. Unknown maltreater; there are 5 adults who have provided care for Samantha who could have caused the injury; her mother Jenny, father Michael, maternal grandparents, Jan and Alan Johnson and paternal grandfather, Bill Cahill. They are only allowed supervised contact with Samantha. This contact can only be supervised by Cheryl or John Balke, unless otherwise approved by CPS.

Describe how CPS will oversee / manage the Protective Plan, including communication with the family and providers. Social Worker Steven’s will contact Cheryl, John & Carol once a week (phone and in person) to discuss the status of the plan and make any decisions related to needed revisions/adjustments. Social Worker Steven’s provided her phone number as well as agency crisis number to Cheryl, John and Carol to contact her if there were any problems in carrying out the requirements of the protective plan (e.g.: if Jenny, Micahel or 3 grandparents try to intervene and remove Samantha form their care.) Jenny, John and Carol are all clear as to their role in providing protection and care; agree to the responsibility and will contact social worker Steven’s or law enforcement immediately if there is any problem in carrying out the plan.

Yes x No Is the child Native American? If “Yes”, the Indian Child Welfare Act may apply. Yes x No Has the tribe been notified?

If “Yes”, provide time and date of notification. Time: Date: If “No”, document the reason the tribe wasn’t notified.

SIGNATURES SIGNATURE – Parent / Caregiver Date Signed SIGNATURE – Responsible / Protective Adult Date Signed

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SIGNATURE – Worker Date Signed SIGNATURE – Supervisor Date Signed Distribution: Original – Family Yellow – Provider Pink – Agency Record


Reporter Narrative

Name – Worker Brian Williams Name – Reporter Pat Mahaney

Relationship/Position Police officer

Address (Street, City, State Zip Code) 2255 Fireside Drive

Telephone 321-7654

Affiliation: Police Officer who was dispatched to home of child reported to be alone. Reason for Calling: Suspicion of child neglect; received call from dispatch that 6 year old Jack called indicating that he was home alone, did not know where parents were. Law enforcement unable to locate parents, believe child needs placement. Document the Reporter's motivation and source of information, if possible: Mandated reporter. Direct observation –at the home with 6 year old child. Reporter’s opinion about needed actions and child’s safety: Child is unable to care for himself; cannot locate parents and child needs to be placed. Worker’s opinion of reporter’s credibility: Mandated reporter; also seems appropriately concerned about Jack. Additional comments:


CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICE REPORT

Case Name Worker Safety Concerns Report Number Celeste Johansson Yes x No xxxxxx Date and Time Report Received CPS Report Type County 10/21/xx 6:45PM Primary Name - Worker Name - Supervisor Brian Williams Karen Kripton I. Family Information Name - Family Telephone Number - Home Celeste Johansson 585-5585 Address - Street Apt. No. City / Town State Zip Code 211 Racer Drive Our Town WI 55555 Primary Language: English Interpreter Needed: Yes X No

Directions to House Off Old Towne Road A. Household Members Name Role Relationship DOB Age Gender Race

Celeste Johansson Steve Johansson Jack Johansson

PN HM AV

Mother Father Child

unk unk 6

F M F

W W W

AV = Alleged Victim A = Asian or Pacific Islander HM = Household Member B = Black NM = Non-Household Member I = American Indian / Alaskan Native PN = Parent / Parental Role P = Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander RN = Report Name U = Unable to Determine W = White Information that the child may have American Indian heritage, including names of tribe(s) if known. none B. Parent(s) Not in Home / Other Non-Household Members Name Relationship Address Telephone No. DOB Gender Race

C. Alleged Maltreatment Alleged Victim Relationship to Victim A/N Code Description F Jack Johansson Biological Child

Neglect Lack of Supervision No

**TRAINING CASE EXAMPLE Page 3 of 5

F = Fatality D. Location of Incident Address - Street Apt. No. City / Town State Zip Code 211 Racer Drive Our Town WI Telephone Number - Home Telephone Number - Work Date and Time of Alleged A / N 585-5585 E. Contacts / Others with Information About Family unknown

II. Narrative

a. Describe alleged maltreatment: current and past; the surrounding circumstances; and the frequency or intervention or services needed for the child.

Reported to CPS by law enforcement. Jack arrived home after school and mom not home as she usually is. Jack tried to reach his dad on his cell phone, but no answer. When it got dark, he got scared and called 911 as he knows that is the number to call if you need help. b. Describe the child(ren)’s injury or conditions as a result of the alleged maltreatment or services

needed. Jack is home and fearful of being alone; needs appropriate adult care and supervision.

c. Describe the child(ren)’s current location, school/daycare including dismissal time, functioning,

including special needs, if any, and highlighting current vulnerability. Jack is 6 years old and in kindergarten. Although he seems smart (knows how to reach parents on cell if needs them, he is too young to care for himself. He reports being scared once it got dark so called for help.

DESCRIBE ANY PRESENT DANGER THREATS, INCLUDING A DESCRIPTION OF POSSIBLE OR LIKELY EMERGENCY (EXIGENT ) CIRCUMSTANCES

d. Child is unable to care for self and is unsupervised or alone at the time of the report.

Jack has been home alone afterschool since 4pm. Unable to locate either parent.

e. Child is fearful or anxious of the home situation at the time of the report Jack became scared after being home by himself for over 2 hours; unable to contact parents, got dark, heard noises and afraid; worried about mom and dad.

f. Parent’s/caregivers whereabouts are unknown: Jack does not know where either of his parent’s are: mom is supposed to be home when he gets off the school bus; dad is usually home from work by now; neither answering phones.

g. Document any relevant information from CPS history, CCAP and Sex Offender Registry-Reverse

Address checks (if no relevant information found, document that checks were completed) Records checked and no relevant information found.


h. Describe when the alleged maltreater will have access to the child. Unknown; unable to reach either parent at the time of the report.

i. Describe any changes in circumstances that may make it difficult to fulfill CPS responsibilities.

j. Describe presence of domestic violence, if applicable, including the demonstration of power and control and entitlement within the home. None known by reporter.

k. Describe how the family may respond to intervention by the agency, including the parental protective capacities. Unknown by reporter; unable to locate either parent.

THE FOLLOWING SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR ALLEGED MALTREATMENT BY PRIMARY CAREGIVER OR PARENTAL CONTRIBUTION TO THE MALTREATMENT: l. Describe the parents or adults in the parental role: current location, functioning, and parenting

practices and views of child(ren). Unknown to reporter; mother is supposed to be home & father home from work. Family unknown to law enforcement or CPS system. m. Describe the family functioning, strengths and current stressors. Unknown to reporter. Jack told reporter that his mom is always home when he gets off the school bus. Said mom and dad don’t fight, then said “oh yeah, they were yelling at each other about mom being on the computer so much at night.” DESCRIBE THE POSSIBLE OR LIKELY IMPENDING THREATS TO CHILD SAFETY None reported or identified at Access. Document the name of the alleged maltreater and relationship to child. Mother; per child, she is the one who is supposed to be there when he gets home from school.

III. Agency Response A. Supervisor Screening Decision Decision Date / Time Decision was Made Screen In 10/21/xx 6:45PM Response Time Reason Same Day Screen In CA/N Primary Explain 10/21/xx on call social worker to respond to home to meet LE and assess for Present Danger. B. X Yes No Law Enforcement Notified X Yes No After Hours Report

IV. Signatures


SIGNATURE - Worker Date Signed

SIGNATURE - Supervisor Date Signed


Johansson: Summary of First Contact Notes: 10-21-XX

Case Narrative:

When Social worker Brian Williams arrived at the home, Steve Johansson was already there. Officer Mahaney relayed that Mr. Johansson had arrived approximately 10 minutes earlier. Social worker Williams and Officer Mahoney spoke with Steve Johansson in the kitchen while Jack sat in the living room and watched TV.

Officer Mahaney relayed that he had been dispatched to the home 25 minutes earlier, after Jack called 911 reporting that he was home alone and scared. When Officer Mahaney arrived, Jack let him in the home and told him about what happened when he got off the bus from school at 4pm: mom is usually home waiting from him, was not and did not see any note from her; called her cell phone many times over the last 2.5 hours, only got voice mail; has left messages for her, but she never called back. Also called dad on his cell phone and left messages, but he has not called back either. Officer Mahaney had attempted to contact both parents via their cell phones as well and had not been able to reach either.

Steve Johansson reported that he was “surprised” and worried when he arrived home to find a squad car parked in his driveway; he thought something had happened to his wife or son. Although relieved to find that Jack was ok, he was upset that his wife was not there, but also not completely surprised. He said that he had work meetings until late and did not turn on his phone. He had last seen his wife that morning and she never said anything about going anyplace, so he had no reason to think she would not be home when Jack finished school.

In discussing the current family situation and routine, Steve revealed that Celeste was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder two years ago; was stable on her meds and feeling well for over a year. Celeste recently talked about weaning herself off her medications as the side effects were making her feel foggy and sluggish. Steve said he did tell Celeste he didn’t want her to so this on her own and suggested she talk to her doctor before doing anything; she assured him she would follow up with her doctor. He had not talked with her anymore about this. Steve recalled that over the last few days, Celeste has been staying up through the night on the computer, shopping online, reading blogs and posting on chat rooms. Steve has tried to talk to her about this, but she has dismissed his concerns, saying that she has never felt better or more energized. These discussions have turned into arguments, ending when Celeste has refused to talk anymore, walks away and shuts Steve out.

Steve shared that when Celeste was first diagnosed as having bi-polar disorder two years ago, she had some similar behaviors; she would drive off in the middle of the day to random places, lose track of time, spend a lot of money and didn’t see any problem with any of it. It was this change in behavior that prompted him to talk her into seeing someone which resulted in her


diagnosis and prescription for medication. Steve is just thankful that during that time, Jack was not harmed. While in the beginning of the discussion, Steve seemed concerned for both his son and wife, he quickly became more quiet and defensive when this worker talked to him about concerns for Jack’s safety when in the care of his mother. Steve said that he was now “on top of it” and he had taken care of it before and would do it again and they did not need CPS’s help. He made the comment that he can take care of Jack and CPS does not need to worry about them, that Jack is fine to live in their house,

Social worker Williams and Officer Mahaney spoke with Jack in the living room. Jack shared the same information as to his attempts to reach both parents. Jack said he first thought his mom may have run over to the store, but when she didn’t come back after he watched a few TV shows, he got worried and tried to call his dad. Then he started to get hungry, it got dark and he got scared so he called the police because he remembered that was what his teacher taught him to do if he was ever in trouble and needed help. Jack was not able to recall any other time that his mom was not at home when he returned from school. He reported that he is never home alone; mom, dad, another family member or babysitter is with him.

While meeting with Steve and Jack, Celeste called the house. She told Steve that she went out of town to do some shopping; there were so many bargains and she got lots of stuff for him and Jack, reported that the whole car is full. Steve reminded her that when they spoke earlier that day, he reminded her that he would be late that night because of some meetings and asked her why she did not tell him of her plans to go shopping when they spoke. Celeste told him it “was no big deal”, that it came up spur of the moment after she saw some ads on the internet. She said she could not pass up the deals. When asked what she thought Jack would do when he came home and no one was not there, Celeste minimized any problems with it, saying he knows where the cookies are and could have just had a snack and watched some TV until she got back. Celeste did not see any problem in what she assured him that he would understand she had to go once he saw all the good deals she got.

Celeste arrived home and met with this worker. While she continued to diminish her actions and any problem with Jack being alone, she seemed quieter, calm and more reserved than how she was presenting while on the phone with Steve. Celeste avoided eye contact while talking, apologized to her husband and Jack, but reassuring them both that Jack was just fine the whole time. It is not clear if her dismissing Jack’s fear/concerns were more out of embarrassment for her actions and an attempt to justify her not being home to care for Jack or that she really believes that he is capable of providing the level of care needed for himself. She reported recently “weaning” herself of the medication, cutting her dosage in half because she did not like the side effects (tired, “spacey”). She said that she has felt great and does not think there is any problem in her “cutting back” on her meds.


Determination of Present Danger:

Condition: Celeste has taken herself off her medication for her bi-polar disorder, behavior has become unpredictable, some manic behaviors (limited sleep, up late spending many hours on the internet, impulsively leaving the home, not returning for care of child) and is unable to see any problem in what she is doing because feels great emotionally and physically. Steve is minimizing the problem, saying that this has happened before; he took care of it then and will do so again. While Steve does seem concerned for his son, his response may be in reaction to worry over CPS being involved and fear of Jack being removed from the home. Jack is unable to care for himself and cannot count on Celeste to provide consistent supervision and care for him when Steve is at work.

Assessment Decision:

Present Danger at Initial Contact:

Parent is out of control (mental illness or other significant lack of control). Celeste is bipolar and currently unmediated. She continues to dismiss any concerns about the impact on her behavior and ability to provide needed care to her son. As the bipolar is unregulated, it is also unpredictable. Steve minimizes the seriousness of the concerns, indicating that “she has been like this before and everything turned out ok. I can handle this.” Case information supports that Steve has had recent concerns about Celeste’s behavior and her inconsistent t care of Jack, however, did nothing active to intervene to assure Jack was safe in his absence. While Steve appears sincere in expressing concern for his wife and son, assuring CPS that he will take care of them all, at this time, there is no indication that dad can manage this on his own and CPS must intervene to control for safety.

Present Danger reported at Access and found to be no longer true at initial contact:

The child is currently being maltreated at the time of the report or contact. During the initial contact, both parents returned home, providing for supervision and care of Jack. . Child is unsupervised and unable to care for self. During the initial contact, both parents returned home, providing for supervision and care of Jack. Steve is able to provide Jack with the needed care and supervision when he is home. Parent’s whereabouts are unknown. By the time CPS arrived, the father had returned home and mother returned home during the contact. .


Negotiation of Protective Plan:

Initially, Steve denied the need for CPS to be involved with his family; indicating that he could take care of things as he had done so in the past. Steve does understand and agrees with the concerns for Jack’s safety and the inability to count on Celeste to provided consistent and adequate care for Jack after school at this time. While not inviting of CPS involvement, Steve was willing to allow CPS in the home and to work together to develop a plan so that Jack could remain safely in the home. While Celeste did not outwardly acknowledge that leaving Jack alone was unsafe, she did not argue or disagree with the need for a Protective Plan. She agreed to the plan that was developed, including following up with her doctor the next day.

Explore Protective Plan Options:

Steve is able to make adjustments in his work schedule to allow him to leave later in the morning so he can get Jack up, ready and to school. While he is able to avoid any late night meetings for a while, he is unable to be home earlier than 5pm. Jack is involved with after school activities three nights a week (M, W, F) and does not get home until 5:30 on those nights. On these days, Jack remains at school until one of his parents or his best friend Joey’s parents’ puck him up and takes him home.

This leaves Tuesday and Thursday’s from when Jack gets off the bus (4pm) until Steve gets home (5pm) where Jack is typically in the care of his mother. Steve has several friends through church and town that have teenage daughters who may be able to babysit for Jack after school on these days until he gets home at 5. Another option is for Jack to go to his friend Joey’s house after school until Steve can pick him up. Steve feels comfortable enough to approach several people, let them know what is going on with Celeste and ask for their support and assistance in providing some care for Jack. He will work on these arrangements; until that time, CW agency staff will meet with mom and Jack from 4 to 5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays to provide basic monitoring and supervision. In addition, this will allow the CPS worker to collect assessment information from mom and Jack.

Protective Plan:

Jack will attend after school activities until dad picks him up at 5pm M, W & F.

CPS worker will come to the home and meet with Celeste and Jack from 4pm to 5pm on Tuesdays; parent aide will come to the home and meet with Celeste and Jack from 4pm to 5pm on Thursdays. This will be a temporary plan. CPS will review and revise as Steve identifies other protective plan providers for after school care; CPS will work with Steve to confirm the suitability of the providers identified.

See Completed Protective Plan in the case file for plan specifics.

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Division of Safety and Permanence **TRAINING CASE EXAMPLE

PROTECTIVE PLAN Case Name (Last, First, MI) Johansson, Celeste

Case Number XXXXXXXX

Date Protective Plan Completed 10—21-XX

List each child included in the Protective Plan, including their location. Jack Johansson: remains in the home with parents Steve & Celeste Johansson.

PRESENT DANGER THREATS TO SAFETY Maltreatment

The child is being maltreated at the time of the report / initial contact. Severe to extreme maltreatment of the child is suspected / observed / confirmed. The child has multiple / different kinds of injuries. The child has injuries to the face or head. The maltreatment demonstrates bizarre cruelty. The maltreatment of several victims is suspected / observed / confirmed. The maltreatment appears premeditated. Dangerous (life threatening) living arrangements are present. The report is serious and there is a history of reports. The child is accessible to the maltreater.

Child Parent’s / caretaker’s viewpoint of child is bizarre. Child is unable to care for self and is unsupervised or alone at the time of the report (now). Child needs medical attention at the time of the report (now). Child is fearful or anxious of the home situation at the time of the report (now).

Parent / Caregiver Parent / caregiver is intoxicated (alcohol or other drugs) now or is consistently under the influence.

X Parent / caregiver is out-of-control (mental illness or other significant lack of control) now. Parent / caregiver is demonstrating bizarre behaviors now. Parent / caregiver is acting dangerous now or is described as dangerous. Parents / caregivers are unable or unwilling to perform basic care now. Parents / caregivers whereabouts are unknown. One or both parents / caregivers overtly reject intervention. Both parents / caregivers cannot or do not explain the child’s injuries and / or conditions.

Family The family may flee. The family hides the child. The child is subject to present / active domestic violence. Family is isolated and there is a report of serious maltreatment. Situation may / will change quickly and there is a report of serious maltreatment.

No Present Danger Threats to Safety Identified.

Describe the caregivers / providers that will be used; e.g., reliability, commitment, availability. How was this confirmed? Steve Johansson, father, will provided and coordinate supervision and care for Jack and will be accountable to CPS for doing so. When the threat to Jack’s safety became apparent, Steve was able to acknowledge it, as well as develop a plan to manage it in order to keep his son safe. While he is worried about his wife and wants to help her, he sees his primary role in assuring that Jack is taken care of. This was all confirmed by worker meeting with Steve in person, discussing situation and developing the plan together.

Describe how the Protective Plan will control identified threat(s) to each child’s safety, including the name(s) and telephone number(s) of Responsible / Protective Adults(s) related to each protective action and their relationship to the family. Describe the actions / services, including the frequency and duration. The identified threat relates to Celeste’s behavior, functioning and care of her son. The plan removes her as being a sole provider of care for Jack. Steve will be responsible for getting Jack up, ready and off to school in the mornings, after 5pm when he gets home from work and on the weekends. For the time when Steve is not home, 4 to 5pm Monday through Friday, other providers will provide supervision and care: Monday, Wednesday and Friday: Jack will be at already established after school activities. He will be transported to and from activities by either his father or friend’s parents via an already established carpool. Celeste will not be involved in the carpool while the protective plan is in place. Tuesday: CPS worker will meet with Celeste and Jack at the family home. While this will provide for supervision/observation, it will also allow the CPS worker to gather needed assessment information. Thursday: Parent aide will meet with Celeste and Jack at the family home. This will provide for supervision/observation until Steve gets home from work. Steve will be working to identify alternate after school care for Jack on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as for any time needed on the weekends. CPS will review and approve any changes to this plan prior to implementation. Describe access of alleged maltreater and parent / caregiver to the child. Celeste remains in the home with her son Jack and husband Steve. She is allowed access to him; just cannot have sole responsibility for supervision and care.

Describe how CPS will oversee / manage the Protective Plan, including communication with the family and providers. CPS will be in the home once a week and will talk to Steve, Celeste and Jack regarding the status of the plan. CPS will also talk to the parent aide following their weekly home visit on Thursdays.

Yes X No Is the child Native American? If “Yes”, the Indian Child Welfare Act may apply. Yes X No Has the tribe been notified?

If “Yes”, provide time and date of notification. Time: Date: If “No”, document the reason the tribe wasn’t notified.

SIGNATURES SIGNATURE – Parent / Caregiver Date Signed SIGNATURE – Responsible / Protective Adult Date Signed SIGNATURE – Worker Date Signed SIGNATURE – Supervisor Date Signed Distribution: Original – Family Yellow – Provider Pink – Agency Record 2

Reporter Narrative - University of Wisconsin–Madison Narrative . Name – Worker Kate Watel Name...

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