Albuquerque police change policy on abuse investigations

Albuquerque police have issued policy changes on child abuse investigations as an internal probe continues into the department’s handling of an encounter last year with the family of a 7-year-old girl who authorities say was a victim of abuse and sexual exploitation.

Police Chief Michael Geier issued three special orders Wednesday that require officers to collect and preserve any possible evidence on calls of suspected child abuse.

Officers must keep all body camera footage and access a state portal that has information on previous contact between the family and social workers.

The department launched an investigation last month to examine the steps taken or missed when officers interviewed the girl, her parents and school teacher.

The girl’s parents have been arrested on charges that include human trafficking and child abuse.

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