Repeated false allegations of sexual abuse presenting to sheriffs: when is it Munchausen by Proxy?

Munchausen by proxy syndrome, wherein a caretaker (most often a mother) simulates or fabricates illness in a child in order to assume the sick role through another has now been described involving a variety of psychiatric problems and false allegations of sexual abuse. Given that a proposed dynamic appears to be a need in a dependent and/or hostile relationship with powerful transferential people from the past, it was expected that professionals (school psychologists, social workers, lawyers) other than doctors would be involved. A case involving law enforcement agents as a primary "target" is described and its significance discussed.