This bill aims to amend and expand the Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations Unit within the West Virginia State Police. Key changes include increasing the unit's membership from a minimum of six to 21 retired members, with each of the 21 State Police districts contributing at least one retired member. The bill also mandates the establishment of investigative offices in each State Police district, located within Department of Human Services offices, and outlines the supervision of investigators by four members of the State Police, preferably those with experience in child abuse investigations or the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the reemployment of honorably retired State Police members within the unit, detailing the conditions under which they may serve, including the lack of pension rights accruing during reemployment and the requirement to pass mental and physical examinations. The reemployed members will hold the rank of trooper and receive compensation equivalent to a corporal, but will not be eligible for promotion or pension plan contributions. The bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration with Child Protective Services and aims to enhance the investigation and prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases in West Virginia.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2-15