(a) In this article, “department” means the Department of Family and Protective Services.
(b) A peace officer from the appropriate local law enforcement agency shall, on receipt of a report, investigate jointly with the department or with the agency responsible for conducting an investigation under Subchapter E, Chapter 261, Family Code, if the report:
(1) is assigned the highest priority in accordance with rules adopted by the department under § 261.301(d), Family Code; and
(2) alleges an immediate risk of physical or sexual abuse of a child that could result in the death of or serious harm to the child by a person responsible for the care, custody, or welfare of the child.

Terms Used In Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 2A.057

  • Complaint: A written statement by the plaintiff stating the wrongs allegedly committed by the defendant.
  • Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005

(c) As soon as possible, but not later than 24 hours, after being notified by the department of a report described by Subsection (b), the peace officer shall accompany the department investigator in initially responding to the report.
(d) On receipt of a report of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or other complaint of a resident of a nursing home, convalescent home, or other related institution or an assisted living facility, under Section 260A.007(c)(1), Health and Safety Code, the appropriate local law enforcement agency shall investigate the report as required by Section 260A.017, Health and Safety Code.


Text of article effective on January 01, 2025

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