Louisiana task force aims to fix gaps in child abuse investigations

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Lawmakers, judges, and child advocates met Wednesday to examine how child abuse investigations are handled in Louisiana and where the system falls short.

“I think that child abuse investigations are a very complex investigative process, and that’s why it’s so important for us to look at every different system that touches the investigation process,” said State Director Amanda Moody.

Senator Regina Barrow leads the state’s task force, trying to figure out where cases get lost, delayed, or mishandled.

“We’re looking at where the gaps or and looking to fill the gaps. So, what seems to be the gap is the code of evidence,” said Barrow.

That means finding clear answers on who takes the lead when abuse is reported and how different agencies can work together.

“I want to go in and see where it’s happening, where it’s not happening, where the judge can now appoint and make sure that kids have a voice and have an advocate,” Barrow said.

But the discussion is not just about policy, it’s about accountability. They believe small, practical changes could make a difference.

“I think there are many things that we can do that are not evasive, that are not hard and not complicated,” said Barrow. “It’s just a matter of will we actually change and make this a priority, and that’s what I plan to do.”