Child Protection Ombuds
About Us
The Child Protection Ombuds (CPO) team is an independent, objective team charged with investigating and resolving concerns from the public about the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS).
What We Do
- We listen to your concerns about DCFS.
- We answer your questions about the child welfare system.
- We conduct independent reviews and investigations to ensure a child’s case is handled according to DCFS practice guidelines and Utah law.
- We determine the best way to resolve concerns, whether that be by explaining DCFS policies and guidelines, working directly with DCFS, or opening an investigation.
- We want to make lasting change by identifying trends in the child welfare system and making recommendations to have a positive impact on children and families.
What We Can't Do
- Investigate individuals and actions outside of DCFS, including court rulings, judges, legal staff, law enforcement agencies, or service providers.
- Investigate personnel issues; we will defer them to DCFS administration.
- Give legal advice.
- Share confidential and protected information about a case or child.
Contact Us
Sofia Latham
Utah’s Child Protection Ombuds
Natalie Cornell
Assistant Child Protection Ombuds
Danelle England
Assistant Child Protection Ombuds
801-538-4589
ocpo@utah.gov
Child Protection Ombuds Team
195 N 1950 W
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
How to File a Complaint
What happens when a complaint is submitted?
- Preliminary intake: we will determine if we can provide assistance or will make a referral to the appropriate agency.
- After a case is accepted, we will determine what action will be taken, which can include any of the following:
- Mediate concerns with DCFS and the complainant to get them resolved.
- Open a review to ensure DCFS policies and guidelines were followed.
- Initiate a formal investigation.
- Decline taking further action as the complaint doesn’t meet our statutory criteria, can be resolved by another remedy, or another reason.
- CPO will keep you updated and informed throughout the process.
Ways to File a Complaint
By Form: Click Here
By Phone: 801-538-4589
By Email: ocpo@utah.gov
By Mail:
Child Protection Ombuds Team
195 N 1950 W
Salt Lake City, UT 84116