Arizona requires prompt trained interviews for children in sexual abuse reports

County investigation rules must require someone trained in interviewing children to gather evidence to conduct the interview. The rule covers a child's allegation or an abuse or neglect report alleging sexual abuse. Covered acts include sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and child sex trafficking, whether committed or allowed. Arizona's child safety agency must show good cause for delay. Reasons include inpatient physical or mental health care, absence from Arizona, or inability to locate the child. Delay is also allowed when a parent or guardian who is not the subject of the report does not respond or cannot or will not make the child available within 72 hours. The agency may document another good reason for delay. The 72-hour deadline runs from receipt of the abuse or neglect report alleging sexual abuse.

Failure to meet this section's requirements does not affect whether evidence or statements from a child can be used in court. The rule applies in criminal cases, civil cases, and cases about whether a child needs court protection.