The person or agency that receives, pursuant to § 22-46-7, a report of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elder or adult with a disability shall also forward the report to the Office of the Attorney General, if the person or agency determines that reasonable suspicion exists to support further investigation. In investigating a violation of this chapter, law enforcement agencies shall cooperate with and assist the Department of Human Services. Upon receiving a report made pursuant to this chapter, the law enforcement agency shall evaluate whether a criminal investigation is appropriate.
SDCL 22-46-5