What does the OIG do?
Created by the Legislature in 2012, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) provides an independent form of inquiry and review of the actions of individuals and agencies responsible for the care and protection of children in the Nebraska child welfare and juvenile justice systems. The OIG is a subdivision of the Office of Public Counsel (Ombudsman’s Office).
The office investigates allegations or incidents of misconduct, misfeasance, malfeasance, statutory violations, and regulatory violations committed by any of the following:
- Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services;
- Juvenile Probation;
- The Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice’s Juvenile Justice Programs;
- Private agencies and service providers under state contract;
- Licensed child care facilities;
- Foster parents; and
- Juvenile detention and staff secure detention centers.
The OIG also investigates incidents resulting in death or serious injury that occur in foster homes, private agencies, child care facilities, or other programs under contract with Juvenile Probation and the Department of Health and Human Services, as well as cases involving an investigation under the Child Protection Act open for no more than one year. The OIG identifies systemic issues and makes recommendations for improvement.
Staff
Jennifer A. Carter, Inspector General of Nebraska Child Welfare
Noah Karmann, Assistant Inspector General
Crystal Jones, Executive Intake Specialist