Failure to Timely Request Fingerprint-Based Background Checks After Criminal History 'HIT'
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its policy requiring a fingerprint-based background check to be requested within 72 hours after receiving a name-based criminal history background check with a 'HIT' result for two residents. Specifically, for both residents, the required fingerprinting consent forms were found to be unsigned and undated, and there was no documentation that the fingerprinting had been scheduled within the required timeframe. The staff responsible for scheduling the fingerprinting was unable to provide evidence of timely communication with the fingerprint service provider, and in one case, admitted to not sending the scheduling email at all. The administrator confirmed that the fingerprinting should have been scheduled within 72 hours according to facility policy, but this was not done. Both residents involved had 'HIT' results on their criminal history reports, with one resident having a conviction for prostitution (Class 4) and the other for burglary (Class 2). Both residents were documented as cognitively intact based on their BIMS scores. The facility's Identified Offender Policy and Procedure clearly states the requirement to request a fingerprint-based background check within 72 hours after a name-based check with qualifying offenses, but this process was not followed for the two residents reviewed.