Mapping the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Investigation System
When abuse of an adult with a disability is reported it can take several pathways into the criminal justice system. The Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Investigations System Map was developed to show the possible paths a report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation can take through three state entities that receive and investigate reports:
- Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Adult Protective Services (APS)
- Department of Mental Health (DMH), Constituent Services
- Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU)
The map was created to strengthen state and local level partnerships and collaborations for improved response to victims with disabilities. It will also serve as a resource for advocates, family members, and professionals to better navigate Missouri’s reporting systems.
The systems map and supplementary materials were developed by the University of Missouri – Institute for Human Development in partnership with and funding from the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council.
The Interactive Map and Resources
For the purposes of this project, the map begins from the moment a report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation is received by one of these state agencies. It follows the report through their investigation and referral processes and ultimately, shows how it leads to the possible prosecution of an alleged perpetrator.
- Download the interactive map to view pop-up information that gives more description about what occurs at each phase.
- Read through descriptions of each agency’s reporting and investigation path; including a glossary of terms and links to state laws and regulations that guide the process.
- Learn more about how to use the interactive map and supplementary materials to support education and training.
Resources
Missouri Adult Abuse & Neglect Investigations System Map
This map displays the path that adult abuse and neglect reports in Missouri take through state agencies. This document includes interactive pop-up descriptions of what is happening at each stage of the process.
Agency Descriptions
Written descriptions of the reporting and investigations process for each agency were developed to provide in-depth information about each phase the report moves through. This document includes a glossary of terms, links to state laws that guide the reporting process and additional resources.
Agency Descriptions – Plain text, Screen Reader Version
A plain text, screen reader friendly version of the Agency Description document was developed for those who would prefer to review a simplified document without design elements.
How to Use This Resource
This resource was developed to explain how to use and share this guide for staff, agency, or community-based trainings on Missouri’s adult abuse and neglect reporting system.
We would like to thank the following individuals and groups that contributed to the development of the Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Investigation System Map: the Missouri Victimization Taskforce; Missouri Elder Abuse and Financial Exploitation Response Committee; Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services; Missouri Department of Mental Health; Missouri Medicaid Fraud and Control Unit; Missouri Protection & Advocacy; Missouri Department of Social Services; Self-determination Network; self-advocates and professionals; and additional stakeholders.
For more information about this project contact Amelia Reighard at reigharda@umkc.edu
Funding for this project is provided by the Missouri Developmental Disabilities Council (MODDC), Grants #1801MOBSDD Seq. No.: 2018 / 4, #1901MOSCDD-02, #2001MOSCDD-02 and as authorized by Public Law 106-402 –Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act).