CPT
Child Protection Team

The Child Protection Team (CPT) is a statewide program operating under the authority of Section 39.303, Florida Statutes. In order to support the state's child protection and investigation services, CPT works to meet four objectives: To evaluate and determine the existence of child abuse or neglect. To assist in coordinating appropriate services for child victims and their families. To increase public awareness of child abuse and neglect; and to increase the knowledge and skill of professionals who work in the realm of child abuse. To advocate for needed treatment and prevention resources. A Complex Response to Child Abuse The Child Protection Team is composed of a medical director, psychologist, attorney, supervisor and case coordinators, who work together to coordinate and provide assistance for children suspected of being abused or neglected. Services Include: Medical diagnosis and evaluation of the child. Psychological diagnosis and evaluation of the child, parents, guardians or any other individuals involved in abuse or neglect case as deemed necessary by the team. Telephone consultations for assessment, information and referrals. Case staffing - meetings of medical, legal, psychological, educational and social work disciplines to develop, implement and monitor treatment plans for the child and / or family. Videotaped interviews with the child in a child friendly environment to document any disclosure of abuse. Case coordination and assistance, including the location and availability of services in the community. A System Based On Referrals. Referrals are requests for authorities to investigate possible incidents of child abuse. Anyone who suspects a child is being abused or neglected has a legal and moral obligation to report their suspicions. Look for the types of abuse and possible indications: PHYSICAL ABUSE - Bruises, burns, fractures, or human bite marks on non-ambulatory children of any age. Unexplained or poorly explained injuries. SEXUAL ABUSE - Genital discharge or infection. Sexually transmitted diseases in children. Physical trauma or irritation to the anal or genital areas. Inappropriate knowledge of sex for the their age group. EMOTIONAL ABUSE - Parents / caretakers place unrealistic or excessive demands on the child. Child is used to satisfy parent's ego. Child is constantly belittled, blamed, threatened or ignored by parents. NEGLECT - Child lacks adequate medical or dental care. Child is dirty, and / or inappropriately dressed for the weather. Home conditions are unsanitary. Child does not receive love or positive reinforcement from parents / caretakers. Child lacks adequate food and supervision by caretakers. FAILURE TO THRIVE - Child is malnourished due to lack of food. Poor maternal nurturing causes child not to grow and develop properly. How To Make A CPT Referral: The CPT can accept referrals and provide services to any child under the age of 18 years who has an open Abuse Registry report which is under investigation by a Manatee County Sheriff's Office Child Protection Specialist. Anyone concerned about the safety of a child or needing team services may call the Child Protection Team for consultation. MCS office hours are from 8am to 5pm weekdays. For emergencies after hours, the CPT may be reached by leaving a message with the answering machine.