Art. 725.4 Duties of law enforcement

When a police officer comes across a child who may need extra help or protection, the law requires them to take two specific steps. First, the officer must contact Louisiana Victim Outreach, a program run by the Department of Public Safety and Corrections, to let them know the child might qualify for special victim services. This helps connect the child with support and resources they may need.

Second, the officer must also report the situation to the Department of Children and Family Services. This is because police officers are considered "mandatory reporters," meaning they are legally required to speak up if they believe a child needs protective services. This report helps make sure child welfare workers know about the child's situation so they can step in if needed.

In short, this rule makes sure that when police encounter a child who may be a victim or at risk, the right agencies are notified right away. It creates a safety net so the child does not fall through the cracks and gets connected to the help they need.