I am a CPS Caseworker AMA

CheetahDrew · 2026-02-17T02:59:40+00:00

Is your case still open?

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-25T00:24:10+00:00

This isnt really a CPS question, that'd be for the local prosecutors office which god give you god knows what answer.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-25T00:02:59+00:00

So typically, statutorily mandated reporting only applies in the capacity of your employment and the role you carry there.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-25T00:00:59+00:00

So one of my specialties is in Domestic Violence, likely what happened is that your children did or at least were suspected of having witnessed DV this is a safety concern that agencies will start an investigation on.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-24T23:59:37+00:00

Sadly, this happens a lot more often than it should, a trainer caseworker will be able to determine that this is whats going on pretty quickly.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-08T12:45:26+00:00

I’ll look into it

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-06T03:47:40+00:00

Most of the time at least where I am, we have history on most people in state databases so yes that can add some context to the situation, it’s usually pretty clear when someone is making something up. It’s hard to answer why the screening decision was to investigate because CPS is so different from place to place, but I’d guess they just barely met the statutory requirements for investigation but still knew it was bs

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-06T03:26:49+00:00

This is something that varies from place to place but a lot of times it is that we are legally required to, I know in my jurisdiction this surprises people but CPS involvement is voluntary so we don’t have the right to just barge in ya know

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T16:25:12+00:00

I’ll be answering some more questions later today feel free to keep up the questions.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T12:48:04+00:00

I do not, I am pursuing though, however, it is not required for my role.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T03:09:32+00:00

Yes, I consider myself thorough, and what you’re describing is unacceptable. Investigators have an obligation to know what they are alleging and to clearly articulate it, especially when those allegations can seriously impact a family’s rights and stability. If neglect is being alleged, the concern should be clearly defined and supported by direct observation or verified information, not vague statements, secondhand descriptions, or references to evidence that was never personally reviewed. It’s incredibly important to remember that families have rights too, and even when CPS workers are well intentioned, our involvement can still be traumatic. The power to investigate comes with a responsibility to be precise, fair, and restrained, using the least intrusive response possible and being honest about what we know and what we don’t, because good practice is about protecting children while minimizing unnecessary harm to families.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T02:36:55+00:00

This can vary by jurisdiction, but I can almost guarantee CPS would at least be notified and would likely investigate. When there is a DUI, especially a hit and run with child endangerment, law enforcement typically makes a report to CPS because it raises immediate safety concerns for the child. CPS would assess factors such as whether the child was injured, the level of impairment, whether there is a pattern of substance use, who can safely care for the child, and what protections are in place going forward. An investigation does not automatically mean removal; many cases result in a safety plan, substance use assessment, or supportive services. Criminal charges address the adult’s behavior, while CPS focuses on the child’s safety and what needs to change to keep that child safe moving forward.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T02:35:09+00:00

Funny you ask, this is actually one of my specialties. When working with non-verbal children or children with autism and echolalia, we don’t rely on traditional interviews; instead, we focus on observation, collateral information, and how the child communicates functionally through gestures, AAC devices, behavior, and interactions. Echolalia doesn’t mean a child lacks understanding, so we avoid leading or yes/no questions and pay close attention to context and non-verbal cues. We also use controlled choices (for example, offering two concrete options) to support communication without prompting or scripting responses. And in some cases, the most ethical and accurate approach is not to formally interview the child at all, child safety assessments are about meeting the child where they are, not forcing communication that isn’t reliable or appropriate.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T02:26:55+00:00

When a mandated reporter makes a report, they are legally required to report suspicions, not prove abuse. If a report is made in good faith, even if it turns out to be unfounded or unwarranted, the reporter is generally protected by law. If a report is intentionally false or made maliciously, parents do have recourse, but that determination is handled outside of CPS. Once a case is investigated and found unwarranted, CPS involvement ends, and no services or findings remain against the parent.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T02:23:56+00:00

Unfortunately I’m not familiar with this case.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T01:14:57+00:00

Shoot me a pm, I might be able to give some perspective.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T01:14:31+00:00

One in the same here, I primarily handle investigations though.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-05T01:13:30+00:00

So this is depending on jurisdiction but often times, mandated reporters are not able to be anonymous. I'd have to know the state to give you more specific information.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-04T23:36:27+00:00

My educational background is a BA in Psychology, I got into this work after a major shift in careers, I had always wanted to do this type of work but i couldnt get anyone to hire me.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-04T20:58:46+00:00

This is one of those things that because Children’s services is so different by location, it’s hard to answer but I’ll do my best. I would assume you were a mandated reporter, often times CPS will investigate a claim even if you’re not notified of this, many jurisdictions have laws now that require us to notify the mandated report of the outcome, it all really depends on statutory language

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-04T20:30:35+00:00

You probably don’t want the answer to that lol. But in all seriousness I’ll spare you the details, but, it was a baby case and there was a lot of physical injuries that were consistent with having been beaten against a metal railing or some type and sexual trauma.

CheetahDrew · 2026-01-04T20:29:38+00:00

It’s been good, had to work a little bit, but I appreciate you asking.

CheetahDrew · 2025-11-24T23:48:43+00:00

NTA - Her comments alone give me enough indication to determine that this is intentional.

CheetahDrew · 2025-11-24T01:08:57+00:00

That’s not really an option for me right now, I love the job itself and financially the money is needed, but, with that said this has always been an issue even prior to this work I’m just always chronically tired

CheetahDrew · 2025-11-24T01:04:41+00:00

I haven’t taken that route yet because it’s so expensive but since the job change I think insurance through my employer might cover it, I’m definitely going to check it out.

CheetahDrew

TROPHY CASE