I do not believe that the "alleged perpetrator" needs to receive a letter after an APS investigation has been made for numerous reasons. The main reason is many times the cases are "unfounded" due to not having sufficient substantiating evidence. Majority of the cases that APS receive are from vulnerable elderly who are receiving care from family members who are the "alleged perp." These clients may have dementia, mental health issues, or in fear of telling someone what is going on because they do not want to go to a nursing home. Once the APS case is closed, this puts the client in jeopardy. The APS social worker does not have jurisdiction and cannot follow up to ensure the client is doing well once the case is closed. The advantage the social worker has now is being able to conduct an investigation and have the choice of contacting the perpetrator if needed. This assist the client's, reporter, and workers involved in the case. Many times when the alleged perpetrator is aware that there is an allegation on them, they ask for a letter informing them of the disposition or we (APS Social worker) provide it. Another reason I do not think the APS should provide a letter to a perpetrator is usually we are conducting joint investigations with other agencies. APS is not able to criminally charge an alleged perpetrator or fine them. By working with other agencies, we stay within our role as an adult protective service social workers and allow the agencies we are working with to conduct their investigation and follow through with all the power they have within the law to assist our clients. By providing a letter to an alleged perpetrator, who are we really helping?