If severe neglect or abuse is suspected, CACD will begin an investigation within 24 hours after the call. In less severe cases, DCFS must begin an investigation within 72 hours. All investigations should be completed within 30 days.

An adult offender may request his or her name be removed from the Child Maltreatment Central Registry when: A. The individual has not had a subsequent true report of this type for one year; and, B. More than one year has passed since the adult offender's name was placed on the Child Maltreatment Central Registry.

Put simply, child maltreatment is a big word for child abuse or neglect. Abuse and neglect can be several things, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, sexual exploitation or abandonment by the caretaker of the child (a parent, guardian, custodian, or foster parent).

It includes all types of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect, negligence and commercial or other exploitation, which results in actual or potential harm to the child's health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.

If you have been notified that you have been placed on the Child Maltreatment Central Registry because of a true finding of abuse or neglect, you only have 30 days to appeal. If you miss this deadline, your name will remain on the registry permanently or until you successfully appeal showing rehabilitation.

To appeal, you must send a letter to DHS requesting an administrative hearing. You should have gotten a letter that told you about this decision. You must send your request for a hearing within 30 calendar days of the date on the letter or your request will be denied. You can use this form to make a request.

Child maltreatment means abuse, neglect, or abandonment of a child by the caretaker (a parent, guardian, custodian, or foster parent). The caretaker may be anyone who is 14 years of age or older and entrusted with the care of the child.