St. Johns County Sheriff's Missing Persons Policy 41.28 PDF

ST. JOHNS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ROBERT A. HARDWICK, SHERIFF Missing Persons Policy 41.28 Effective Date: 06/30/2006 Amended Date: 05/19/2023 ACCREDITATION STANDARDS CALEA: 41.2.4, 41.2.5, 41.2.6, 41.2.7, 44.2.2, 46.2.5 CFA: 15.12 FCAC: FLA-TAC: 12.03 FMJS: Discussion: Cases involving missing child...

ST. JOHNS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE ROBERT A. HARDWICK, SHERIFF Missing Persons Policy 41.28 Effective Date: 06/30/2006 Amended Date: 05/19/2023 ACCREDITATION STANDARDS CALEA: 41.2.4, 41.2.5, 41.2.6, 41.2.7, 44.2.2, 46.2.5 CFA: 15.12 FCAC: FLA-TAC: 12.03 FMJS: Discussion: Cases involving missing children and adults are investigated promptly using appropriate resources. This policy establishes procedures to be used when investigating reports of missing children, including runaway, abandoned, abducted, unidentified and missing adults following the guidelines outlined in Florida Statutes. [41.2.5] [41.2.6] [46.2.5] [CFA 15.12] DEFINITIONS Adult - A missing adult refers to a person who is:  Eighteen (18) years of age or older.  Whose whereabouts are unknown to a concerned party. [CFA 15.12, a] Agency – Refers to St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Missing Child - A person who is:  Younger than eighteen (18) years of age, not emancipated, and  Whose whereabouts are unknown to their parent, guardian, or responsible party. [CFA 15.12, a] Runaway Child - A person:  Younger than eighteen (18) years of age.  Whose whereabouts are unknown to their parent, guardian, or responsible party  The initial assessment has not deemed them at risk. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 1 of 13 CHILDREN.1 The agency shall thoroughly investigate all reports of missing children. [41.2.6, a, c, d] [CFA 15.12, a, b]  The National Child Search Act of 1990 mandates law enforcement’s immediate response to reports of missing children, and the prompt entry, in accordance with FS 937.021, of descriptive information into FCIC / NCIC.  The agency holds that every child reported as missing should be considered at risk until significant information to the contrary is confirmed..2 A missing child should be considered “at risk” when one or more of these unusual circumstances are present: [CFA 15.12, a, c]  Out of zone of safety for their age, developmental stage, and / or physical condition.  Mentally or physically disabled.  Prescription drug dependent.  A potential victim of foul play or sexual exploitation.  In a life-threatening situation.  Absent from home for more than twenty-four (24) hours before being reported to law enforcement as missing. Some parents may incorrectly assume twenty-four (24) hours must pass before law enforcement will accept a missing juvenile / child case.  Believed to be with others who could endanger their welfare.  Is absent under circumstances inconsistent with established patterns of behavior.  Whose disappearance involves circumstances that would cause a reasonable person to conclude the child should be considered at risk..3 If it is determined that unusual circumstances are involved in the report of a missing child, the child will be considered at risk and an expanded investigation, including the use of all appropriate resources will immediately commence.  If it is determined that the child is a potential victim of foul play or sexual exploitation, Special Victims shall be notified. [41.2.6, c, e] [CFA 15.12, c].4 If appropriate, existing interagency response protocols, including the Amber Alert system and the Child Abduction Response Team (CART) should be activated. Refer to Amber Alert and CART in the Missing Person Resources section of this policy. [41.2.6, c, d] [46.2.5] [CFA 15.12, c].5 If unusual circumstances are not involved in the report of a missing child, refer to the Runaway Section within this policy..6 Communications personnel receiving the report of a missing child shall: [41.2.6, b, e] [CFA 15.12, a, c]  Determine if circumstances of the report meet the definition of a missing child.  Promptly dispatch a deputy to the scene of the report.  Notify Communications Supervisor and Patrol Supervisor.  Search agency records for related information..7 Within two (2) hours of receiving a missing child report, Communications will: [41.2.6, c] [CFA 15.12, b]  BOLO the information about the missing child to all on-duty personnel and other law enforcement agencies of the county.  Enter the missing child into FCIC / NCIC. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 2 of 13 QUALITY ASSURANCE.8 The responding deputy assigned to the report of a missing child shall: [41.2.4] [41.2.6, b, c, e] [CFA 15.12, a, c]  Respond promptly to the scene.  Interview the parent(s) or person who made the initial report.  Obtain a description of the missing child including photograph(s) and videotapes.  Verify the child is, in fact, missing.  Confirm the child’s custody status.  Identify the circumstances of the disappearance.  Determine when, where, and by whom the missing child was last seen.  Interview the individual(s) who last had contact with the missing child.  Identify the child’s zone of safety for their age, developmental stage, and physical and mental state.  Make an initial determination of the type of incident by employing all available assessment tools, (i.e., investigative checklist).  Obtain a description of the suspected abductor(s) and other pertinent information.  Determine the correct NCIC Missing Person File category and ensure a notification is promptly transmitted. There are five (5) categories within the Missing Person File which apply to children. They are disability, endangered, involuntary, juvenile, and catastrophe. [41.2.4]  Provide detailed descriptive information to Communications for broadcast updates.  Identify and conduct a recorded interview with everyone at the scene.  Conduct a thorough search of the scene. [46.2.5]  Secure and safeguard the area as a potential crime scene.  Record if the child has access to an online computer or cellular telephone.  If the child is not immediately located, generate a general offense report and complete appropriate forms.  Advise immediate Supervisor of the incident. [41.2.4]  If the situation warrants a search, the Sergeant will advise the District Lieutenant. [41.2.4].9 The Patrol Supervisor shall: [41.2.6, b, e] [46.2.5] [CFA 15.12, a, c]  Obtain a briefing from the first responder(s) and other agency personnel at the scene.  Determine if additional personnel and resources are needed to assist in the investigation, (i.e., K-9, Air Unit, Investigations, Search Teams).  Establish a command post away from victim’s home.  Review the missing person report for accuracy / completeness.  Ensure all relevant information is entered in FCIC / NCIC.  Ensure the report is forwarded to the appropriate Investigative Unit Supervisor’s box (Special Victims or Major Crimes) in the designated records management system (RMS) after Patrol efforts have been exhausted and the child has not been located. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 3 of 13.10 The Investigative team / detective will: [41.2.5, e, f] [41.2.6, f]  Respond promptly to the scene.  Re-Interview the parent(s) or person who made the initial report.  Obtain a description of the missing child including photograph(s) and videotapes.  Verify the child’s custody status.  Identify the circumstances of the disappearance.  Conduct a neighborhood canvass for witnesses and / or video surveillance.  Obtain dental information from the family to be included with the NCIC Dental File if the child has not been located within thirty (30) days.  Obtain a biological specimen (Buccal Swab) from family members for DNA analysis and submit into evidence.  Enter the details of the case into NamUs. [41.2.6, c].11 All active / pending cases will be validated every thirty (30) days by the Validations Specialist. Any additional information obtained will be forwarded to the Case Agent. [41.2.6, c] [CFA 15.12, e].12 In the event a child is recovered alive, they will most likely have been the victim of some form of physical or emotional experience. At this point, there are several equally important but competing priorities which must be addressed. These include, but may not be limited to the following:  The child’s physical condition and the need for appropriate medical care.  The child’s emotional condition and the need for appropriate psychological care.  The child and their family’s desire to be reunited.  The need to interview the child (to determine if the child is a victim of a crime). [44.2.2, b].13 As soon as the child is recovered, the District Lieutenant shall be notified. The District Lieutenant will be responsible for making the appropriate notifications based on the circumstances (i.e. Investigations, Victim Advocate, etc.). [41.2.6, b].14 In the event the child is recovered deceased, the District Lieutenant should notify the Major Crimes Supervisor who will determine which actions and notifications will occur next. [41.2.6, b].15 In the event the child is not located, the District Lieutenant will brief Command Staff and a decision will be made on how long the search efforts will continue. The appropriate Central Investigations Services Section will assign a detective to conduct a follow up investigation after search efforts have been suspended. [41.2.6, f].16 Calls in which it is determined a child is actually missing or abducted will be forwarded by Communications to the Communications Quality Assurance Evaluator..17 The Quality Assurance Evaluator shall review the call to ensure all the appropriate steps and procedures were followed and provide feedback to those involved in the processing, dispatching and responding to the incident, as well as the respective Supervisors. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 4 of 13 RUNAWAYS.18 The agency shall thoroughly investigate all reports of runaway children. Runaway children who have not been deemed “at risk” will be considered voluntarily missing until significant information to the contrary is confirmed. [41.2.6, a].19 Responding deputy responsibilities: [41.2.6, c, e]  Interview the parent(s) or person who made the initial report.  Confirm the child’s custody status.  Determine the child’s history of prior disappearances (where they went the last time they ran away, who they were found with, where they were found, etc.)  Determine when, where, and by whom the missing child was last seen.  Interview the individual(s) who last had contact with the missing child.  Secure a recent photograph and other identifying information.  Initiate a thorough investigation.  Complete the missing person report thoroughly.  Ensure all relevant information is entered in FCIC / NCIC as soon as possible..20 Patrol Supervisor responsibilities: [41.2.6, c, e]  Ensure a thorough investigation is initiated and continues at the Patrol level until Youth Resources becomes involved in the investigation (if applicable). The report will be forwarded to the Youth Resources box in the designated RMS.  Review missing person report for accuracy / completeness.  Confirm the runaway child does not meet at risk criteria.  Ensure all relevant information is entered in FCIC / NCIC..21 Case Agent responsibilities: [41.2.6, b, c]  Verify all notifications and system entries have been made.  Check agency records for previous cases.  Check DCF records pertaining to the family.  Interview family, friends, and known acquaintances.  Request specialized support if needed for technology / communications / media assistance.  If a significant period of time lapses without recovery or contact with the runaway child (the term “significant period of time” will differ from case to case depending on the Case Agent’s knowledge of the circumstances) the Case Agent should expand investigative efforts  Staff the case with Special Victims Supervisor (request for assistance). [41.2.6, b]  Obtain technical assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).  Consider re-interviewing friends and associates.  Make follow-up contact with the reporting persons to determine any new information found. [41.2.6, f].22 If, during a runaway child investigation, the Patrol Deputy or Case Agent develops information there are other circumstances involved in the case that suggest the runaway child is a potential victim of foul play or sexual exploitation, Special Victims shall be notified immediately..23 All pending cases will be validated every thirty (30) days by the Validations Specialist. Any additional information obtained will be forwarded to the Case Agent. [41.2.6, c] Missing Persons 41.28 Page 5 of 13 RUNAWAY RECOVERED [41.2.6, f].24 Responding deputy responsibilities:  A deputy will be dispatched to confirm, “face to face,” the child has returned.  The responding / locating deputy should ensure the child is returning to a safe environment.  The responding / locating deputy will interview the child to attempt to determine the reason (s) for the child / children deciding to run away.  If a determination can be made as to the cause, the deputy will take the appropriate law enforcement action and / or provide the contact information for agencies or entities which may be of assistance (Department of Children and Families).  Upon completing the follow-up investigation, the responding deputy will complete a supplement report detailing any action taken or referrals made.  The responding deputy will reclassify the offense as Runaway Recovered Local or Recovered Elsewhere and forward it to the Supervisor for approval.  The report should be forwarded to the Youth Resource Supervisor’s box (for Case Screening purposes).  Request Communications / Validations to remove entry in FCIC / NCIC..25 The Communications Supervisor shall ensure the runaway is removed from FCIC / NCIC. ADULTS [41.2.5].26 The agency will thoroughly evaluate all reports of missing adults. [CFA 15.12, a] Deputy Responsibility [41.2.5, a, b] [46.2.5].27 The responding deputy should determine if the circumstances warrant law enforcement involvement (search and rescue issue or foul play suspected). If it is determined law enforcement involvement is necessary, the deputy will notify their Supervisor and begin the following: [41.2.4]  Obtain a full description of the person, both in personal appearance and clothing, a recent picture, fingerprints (if available), the general circumstances of the case and any habits.  Gather as much information as possible from family, friends, neighbors, etc.  Obtain any associated phone numbers, social media handles or any email addresses the subject uses.  Determine the extent of any search already performed by the complainant or by any other party.  Document the time and place at which the missing adult was last seen.  Document any other information about the person that might be of use in locating them.  Document the name and address of the complainant, and their relationship with the missing person.  Generate an offense report and complete appropriate forms.  Photograph the missing person’s residence / scene and submit into evidence.  Conduct a neighborhood canvass.  Request Communications to enter subject in FCIC / NCIC Missing Persons 41.28 Page 6 of 13 Supervisor Responsibility [41.2.5, f] [46.2.5].28 The Supervisor shall:  Obtain a briefing from the first responder(s) and other agency personnel at the scene.  Determine the level of law enforcement response (search and rescue, K-9, air unit, Investigations notification, etc.).  Maintain the victim’s home as a crime scene if suspicious.  Review the missing persons report for accuracy / completeness.  Ensure all relevant information is entered in FCIC / NCIC.  Ensure the report is forwarded to the Major Crimes box in the designated RMS after Patrol efforts have been exhausted and additional follow-up is needed..29 Appropriate resources should be considered (Alert St. Johns, Silver Alert, etc.). Refer to the Silver Alert section of this policy. See policy 81.10 Mass Notifications/Alert St. Johns. Watch Commander Responsibility.30 The Watch Commander should coordinate activities of various personnel involved in the investigation / search..31 The Watch Commander has the authority to request assistance from outside agencies when needed. This could include Fire Rescue, Coast Guard, etc..32 The Watch Commander should establish Incident Command away from the victim’s home, if necessary. Suspicious Circumstances.33 At any point during a missing adult incident, if circumstances are discovered that suggest the person may be a victim of foul play, the Major Crimes Supervisor will be contacted immediately. Recovery.34 If the person is located alive, they should be medically evaluated and interviewed to determine, if there are criminal elements to their disappearance (notify appropriate Investigations Section, if warranted)..35 In the event the person is located deceased, the Major Crimes Supervisor will be notified and will determine which actions and notifications will occur next..36 In the event the person is not located in a reasonable amount of time, the District Lieutenant will brief Command Staff and a decision will be made on how long the search efforts will continue. A detective may be assigned for follow up, depending on the circumstances. [41.2.5, e] Communications’ Responsibilities [41.2.5, c] [46.2.5] [CFA 15.12, d].37 Adults are only entered into the FCIC / NCIC when suspicious circumstances are involved. (Physical or mental disability, endangered, catastrophe victim, circumstances indicating the disappearance is involuntary, or are under the age of twenty-one (21))..38 In accordance with F.S. 937.021 information regarding the missing person is entered into FCIC / NCIC within two (2) hours of the report. [CFA 15.12, b] Missing Persons 41.28 Page 7 of 13 MISSING PERSON FILE.39 In order to enter a person as missing, an agency must have written documentation from a parent, legal guardian, next of kin, physician, in unusual circumstances, other authoritative source including a friend or neighbor. When such documentation is not reasonably attainable, a signed report by the investigating deputy may be used for entry. Missing person’s laws require law enforcement agencies to adopt written policies to accept reports and investigate missing persons. CRITERIA FOR ENTRY IN FCIC [41.2.5, c] [46.2.5] [CFA 15.12, b].40 Agencies must have a missing person report (electronic or hard copy) on file to support a missing person entry. A missing person record may be entered using one of the following categories:  Disability (MKE / EMD): a person of any age who is missing and under proven physical / mental disability or is senile, thereby subjecting themselves or others to personal and immediate danger.  Endangered (MKE / EME): a person of any age who is missing under circumstances indicating that their physical safety may be in danger.  Involuntary (MKE / EMI): a person of any age who is missing under circumstances indicating the disappearance may not have been voluntary, i.e., abduction or kidnapping.  Juvenile (MKE / EMJ): a person who is missing and not declared emancipated as defined by the laws of their state of residence and does not meet any of the entry criteria set forth in 1, 2, 3, or 5.  Catastrophe Victim (MKE / EMV): a person of any age who is missing after a catastrophe.  Other (MKE / EMO): a person not meeting the criteria for entry in any other category who is missing and: (1) For whom there is a reasonable concern for their safety or (2) A person who is under age twenty-one (21) and declared emancipated by the laws of their state of residence..41 A BOLO shall be issued to all units via MCT, and via FCIC to other local agencies, as needed. [CFA 15.12, c].42 When the missing person is located, a supplement report will be completed detailing the circumstances. [41.2.6, c] [CFA 15.12, c].43 The original report serves as the computer entry / cancellation and is kept in Records. FCIC / NCIC CANCELLATION [41.2.5, c] [41.2.6, c] [CFA 15.12, d].44 When the missing person has been confirmed as no longer missing, the deputy shall submit a supplement to the original report and notify FCIC / NCIC. Communications / Validations will clear the entry from FCIC / NCIC. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 8 of 13 INVESTIGATIVE FOLLOW UP [41.2.5, f].45 Per FS 937.021, a monthly review of each case will be conducted to determine if the case should be maintained in the FCIC / NCIC database. [CFA 15.12, d].46 If the missing person has not been located within thirty (30) days after a report is filed, the agency shall request the family or next of kin to provide written consent to contact the dentist of the missing person and request dental records. The agency shall then enter the dental records into the criminal justice information system for the purpose of comparing such records to those of unidentified deceased persons. [41.2.5, f] [CFA 15.12, e].47 If the missing person is not located within ninety (90) days after a report is filed, the agency shall attempt to obtain a biological specimen (Buccal Swab) for DNA analysis from appropriate family members in addition to obtaining necessary documentation. The biological specimen may be collected prior to the ninety (90) day period and will be submitted into evidence. [CFA 15.12, f].48 Enter details of the case into the NamUs system. MISSING PERSON RESOURCES [46.2.5] Search and Rescue [46.2.5].49 The agency utilizes search and rescue procedures through the use of investigative techniques, searches, resources from other agencies, or the media. Amber Alert [41.2.6, d].50 The Amber Alert is used to broadcast critical information to the general public via radio, television, electronic, and activation of the statewide messaging system via the Florida Department of Transportation’s highway dynamic message signs and other highway advisory methods, other media regarding a missing / abducted child, who is believed to be endangered in a quick and effective manner.  In the event the child / abductor is seen or if anyone has knowledge of the abduction, that information can then be immediately provided to the agency. Authority.51 The decision to activate or not activate the Amber Alert is made at the Patrol Shift Leader level, with FDLE authorization. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 9 of 13 Criteria for Activation [41.2.6, d].52 To activate an AMBER Alert the following five (5) criteria must be met:  The child must be under eighteen (18) years of age.  There must be a clear indication of an abduction.  The law enforcement agency's preliminary investigation must conclude that the child's life is in imminent danger of death or serious bodily injury.  There must be a detailed description of the child, and / or abductor / vehicle to broadcast to the public.  The activation must be recommended by the local law enforcement agency of jurisdiction..53 Amber Alert is not to be activated in the case of Runaways or Family Abductions, unless the investigation has shown reason to believe the child's life is in immediate danger. Steps for Activation.54 The Patrol Shift Leader or designee will contact the FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) at 1-888-356-4774..55 FDLE will work in conjunction with the agency to determine if information is to be broadcast on a regional or statewide basis. [41.2.5, b].56 FDLE will work in conjunction with the agency to prepare information (i.e., child, suspect and / or vehicle, contact information) for public distribution using an approved format. COMMUNICATIONS RESOURCES AVAILABLE.57 Communications will maintain a current list of law enforcement, social service and media organizations which may be contacted for notification and / or assistance. Missing Child Alert [41.2.6, d] [46.2.5].58 The Florida Missing Child Alert is similar to an Amber Alert and will ensure critical information is broadcast to the general public via radio, television, electronic, and other media regarding a missing child, who is believed to be endangered in a quick and effective manner. Criteria for Activation [41.2.6, d].59 To activate a Missing Child Alert the following four (4) criteria must be met:  The child is under the age of eighteen (18).  Law enforcement has a well-founded belief, based on an active investigation, that the child is in danger of death or serious bodily injury.  There is a detailed description or photograph of the child to broadcast to the public.  The local law enforcement agency of jurisdiction recommends activation. Missing Persons 41.28 Page 10 of 13 Steps for Activation.60 The local law enforcement agency will contact the FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) at 1-888-356-4774..61 The FDLE, working in conjunction with the local law enforcement agency of jurisdiction, will prepare information for public distribution..62 The FDLE will ensure that the information is distributed to the media as well as to the public via text message and email through www.missingchildrenalert.com and other resources. Silver Alert [41.2.5, b] [46.2.5].63 The Silver Alert System has been developed to broadcast information of a missing elderly person who suffers from irreversible deterioration of intellectual faculties (dementia, Alzheimer’s) in a timely manner, to the general public. [41.2.5, g].64 The Silver Alert System may be activated if all of the following criteria are met: [41.2.5, d]  The investigating deputy has had the missing person entered into FCIC / NCIC.  The missing person is sixty (60) years of age or older.  There must be a clear indication that the individual has a diagnosed cognitive impairment, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s or;  Under extraordinary circumstances when a person age eighteen (18) to fifty-nine (59) has irreversible deterioration of intellectual faculties and law enforcement has determined the missing person lacks the capacity to consent, and the use of dynamic message signs may be the only possible way to rescue the missing person.  The missing person is believed to be in danger..65 A Silver Alert activation must be authorized by a Patrol Shift Leader or above. Activation Procedures [41.2.5, b].66 The Silver Alert System should be activated as soon as possible after it is determined that all of the above criteria have been met and when an immediate search of the area has failed to locate the individual. It is further believed the activation of the alert through media and other local resources would aid in the safe recovery of the individual..67 Additionally, the media is to be notified via Media Alert or through the Public Information Office..68 If a vehicle is involved, the statewide messaging system may also be activated via the Florida Department of Transportation’s highway dynamic message signs and other highway advisory methods..69 Contact the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC)..70 Advise the person answering that activation of the Silver Alert is requested and provide the following information:  Verified vehicle description and tag number.  Information that a statewide BOLO to other law enforcement / 911 centers has been initiated.  Information that a local media alert has been initiated..71 Once the individual is located, the Silver Alert must be cancelled. FDLE and Media Alert must be notified. [41.2.5, c] Missing Persons 41.28 Page 11 of 13 Safe Trak [46.2.5].72 Safe Trak facilitates the recovery of participants prone to wander (young or old), by utilizing radio frequency tracking devices..73 The person must have been diagnosed with a condition that causes wandering. In the elderly, it may be dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury, stroke or any number of neurological causes. In children and younger adults, it may be Down Syndrome, Autism, or traumatic brain injury. [41.2.5, g].74 Participating requirements include:  Participants must have a full time caregiver, (spouse, parent, guardian).  Registration of a device with the SAFE TRAK program.  Education of caregiver and understanding of equipment is mandatory. The device does not replace or relieve the caregiver of the responsibilities to care for the individual..75 If a participant is to wander off, the caregiver is instructed to call 911 immediately. The trackers will begin searching the area. Additional personnel will be brought in as needed..76 The agency has “Master Trackers” trained and certified by the manufacturer. The “Master Trackers” have trained deputies and other employees how to track and they have been certified through educational and practical components. Florida Purple Alert [41.2.5, b] [46.2.5].77 The Florida Purple Alert assists in the location of missing adults suffering from mental, cognitive, intellectual, or developmental disabilities. [41.2.5, g].78 Purple Alert may be activated if the following criteria are met:  The person is eighteen (18) years of age or older and does not qualify for a state or local level Silver Alert  The person has an intellectual or developmental disability, brain injury, or other physical, mental, or emotional disability which is not related to substance abuse and does not have Alzheimer’s disease or a dementia-related disorder  The local law enforcement agency’s investigation concluded the disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm to the missing person, and they can only be returned to safety through law enforcement intervention  There is a detailed description of the missing person suitable for distribution  The missing person information has been entered into FCIC  The law enforcement agency of jurisdiction recommends activation Missing Persons 41.28 Page 12 of 13 Child Abduction Response Team (CART) [46.2.5].79 Time is of the essence in child abduction cases and the agency will immediately commence an investigation with as much effort and resources as possible. [CFA 15.12].80 The agency’s in-house Child Abduction Response Team (CART) will be activated immediately during incidents involving the abduction of a child. CART is a rapid response team comprised of agency members from different disciplines, designed to provide immediate resources during a child abduction investigation. [41.2.6, c] [CFA 15.12] [FLA-TAC 12.03].81 The responsibility and the decision to activate the CART will rest with the Patrol Shift Leader. The Patrol Shift Leader will activate CART with the concurrence of the Special Victims Supervisor via Communications, and notify the District Lieutenant. [41.2.6, e] [FLA-TAC 12.03].82 The District Lieutenant should immediately secure a location to establish incident command and separate staging area. This should be away from the victim’s residence and near the place where the victim was last seen. [41.2.6, e].83 Incident Command System will be established per policy 46.9 Incident command System..84 The agency’s Incident Management Team (IMT) should be activated during a CART incident if any of the following criteria are present:  The incident is expected to extend into multiple operational periods.  The incident is complex, large scale, and involves multiple agencies and resources.  Upon request by the Incident Commander..85 Detailed procedures, including canvass forms and investigative checklists, are available online. Agency personnel are encouraged to review and become familiar with these documents..86 The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has established regional Child Abduction Response Teams across the state of Florida. The agency is a member of the FDLE Northeast Florida CART, which consists of various federal, state, and local agencies who have pledged mutual aid assistance in the event of a child abduction. With authorization from the Incident Commander, the agency can request activation of FDLE Regional CART by contacting the FDLE Jacksonville Regional Operations Center (JROC)..87 Agency personnel who are part of the initial CART response will be listed in a separate notification group in Communications. CART ANNUAL REVIEW.88 The Special Victims Supervisor will be responsible for the following on an annual basis:  Updating the CART notification group for Communications.  Updating CART procedures and forms as needed online  Ensuring the agency maintains an active role in FDLE Regional CART. ____________________ Robert A. Hardwick Sheriff Missing Persons 41.28 Page 13 of 13