An officer is required to notify the department under what circumstance during a child abuse investigation?

In the context of a child abuse investigation, it is crucial for law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of the child involved. Notifying the department if the officer is unable to locate the child or family is essential because it directly relates to the immediate welfare of the child. If a child or family cannot be located, this raises serious concerns about the child's safety, and timely notification to the department allows for further investigative measures to be taken.

The department may need to mobilize additional resources or involve different units, such as child protective services, to assist in locating the child or family. This step is vital in preventing any potential harm and ensuring that the appropriate interventions can be made quickly.

While finding a witness, gathering additional evidence, or having the child returned are all significant in the scope of an investigation, they do not carry the same urgency regarding the immediate safety and location of the child. Only the inability to locate the child or family necessitates immediate notification for further action and safeguarding measures.