Department conducting internal investigation

For more information, contact:
KCPD Media Unit
816-234-5170

The Kansas City Missouri Police Department is conducting an internal investigation into case management issues in the Crimes Against Children Section.

In October 2015, Chief Darryl Forté became aware of issues with cases in the section not being addressed in a timely manner according to Department standards and public expectations. Crimes Against Children investigates cases in which children ages 16 or younger are victims of physical or sexual abuse, as well as neglect, endangerment, parental kidnappings and custody violations.

As soon as commanders became aware of the case management issues, corrective actions began, and the Department launched an internal investigation to determine what led to the problems. That investigation is ongoing. The Department is concerned that such serious cases with such vulnerable victims may not have been handled in the most effective manner possible.

Two sergeants and seven detectives were temporarily relieved of duty with pay today as the investigation continues. A commander, sergeant and other detectives with experience in Crimes Against Children cases will be assigned to manage the caseload in the interim.

The Department has formed a committee to audit case management practices to ensure all other investigative units are performing as expected.

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