Who must be notified upon the earliest contact with a child on the list of missing Kentucky children?

Notifying the local law enforcement office or Kentucky State Police upon the earliest contact with a child on the list of missing Kentucky children is crucial because these agencies are responsible for investigating missing person cases. They have the resources, training, and legal authority necessary to take immediate action to ensure the safety of the child. Establishing early communication with law enforcement enables them to coordinate a response, gather vital information, and potentially recover the child more quickly.

In cases of missing children, timing is often critical; the sooner law enforcement is made aware, the better the chance of finding the child safely. While the other options—like notifying the school board, parents, or the Department of Child Services—may play roles in specific contexts, the immediate involvement of law enforcement is essential for addressing the urgent nature of missing children's cases.