Partnership Guide

Working With Law Enforcement

Building effective partnerships with investigators

Law enforcement agencies are critical partners in finding missing children. Understanding how to work effectively with them can make a significant difference in your case.

Best Practices for Collaboration

Designate a Family Liaison

Choose one family member to be the primary contact with law enforcement. This ensures consistent communication and prevents information overload.

DO:

•Pick someone calm under pressure
•Ensure they can take detailed notes
•Make sure they have 24/7 availability
•Provide backup contact person

DON'T:

•Have multiple family members calling detectives
•Share conflicting information
•Expect immediate responses at all hours

Understand Jurisdiction

Know which law enforcement agency has primary jurisdiction and how different agencies coordinate.

DO:

•Ask which agency is lead investigator
•Get contact information for all involved agencies
•Understand how local, state, and federal agencies work together
•Request regular case reviews

DON'T:

•Assume all agencies automatically share information
•Contact multiple agencies independently
•Expect immediate federal involvement

Request a Detective Assignment

Ask for a specific detective to be assigned to your case for continuity and accountability.

DO:

•Get the detective's name and direct contact
•Establish preferred communication methods
•Set expectations for update frequency
•Document all interactions

DON'T:

•Accept rotating investigators without reason
•Rely solely on general hotline numbers
•Assume you'll be contacted proactively

Provide Organized Information

Present information clearly and concisely to help investigators work efficiently.

DO:

•Create a timeline of events
•Organize photos by date
•Write down all relevant details
•Provide digital copies of documents

DON'T:

•Share information in scattered conversations
•Withhold potentially embarrassing details
•Assume investigators know everything

Ask About Resources

Law enforcement has access to resources families may not know about.

DO:

•Ask about FBI NCIC database entry
•Inquire about AMBER Alert eligibility
•Request victim advocacy services
•Ask about forensic resources available

DON'T:

•Assume all resources are automatically deployed
•Be afraid to ask questions
•Accept 'that's not possible' without explanation

Maintain Professional Relationships

Building positive relationships with investigators improves collaboration.

DO:

•Be respectful even when frustrated
•Express appreciation for their work
•Understand they handle multiple cases
•Offer assistance when appropriate

DON'T:

•Become hostile or accusatory
•Make unreasonable demands
•Threaten media involvement as leverage
•Take frustration out on front-line staff

Your Rights as a Family

Right to Regular Updates

You have the right to periodic case updates, even if there's no new information.

Right to Provide Information

You can submit tips, evidence, and information for consideration.

Right to Ask Questions

You can ask about investigative steps being taken and why.

Right to Victim Services

Families are entitled to victim advocacy and support services.

Right to Remain Involved

Families should be included in case planning and decision-making.

Key Law Enforcement Contacts to Request

Ask your investigating agency for these specific contacts:

Primary detective/investigator (name, phone, email)

Detective's supervisor (for escalation if needed)

Victim/witness advocate

Crime scene technician contact

Records department (for reports and documents)

Media liaison/public information officer

FBI case agent (if federal involvement)

State police missing persons clearinghouse

We're Here to Help Navigate

Our team has extensive experience working with law enforcement agencies nationwide. We can help facilitate communication, provide technical support, and ensure your family's voice is heard.