Prosecutor Response

The Washington State Governor’s Methamphetamine Coordinating Committee appointed a Drug Endangered Children’s (DEC) subcommittee to examine existing national and local DEC programs, research pertinent legal issues, and identify best practices that address the children’s needs. The subcommittee’s work resulted in the development of the We Care Plan, a tool to assist counties in responding to the needs of drug-endangered children. Following are the procedures for prosecutors.

Review evidence collected by:

• Law Enforcement
• Medical Services
• Child Protective Services
• Local Health Officer
• Reference appropriate laws.
• Determine appropriate actions to take that are in the best interest of the child.

Prosecutors review evidence collected during the multidisciplinary investigation to determine if child endangerment charges should be filed. Washington State statutes empower law enforcement agencies and Washington State Department of Social and Health Services to respond to incidences involving the manufacture of illegal drugs, or where there is evidence of severe neglect or injury to a child. Numerous statutes provide guidance for the care, treatment, protection, and placement of the drug-endangered child. Counties should become familiar with the laws and seek the advice of local prosecutors.