Child Advocacy Center

Description

We conduct forensic interviews of children when there are allegations of child maltreatment, or a child is a possible witness to a violent crime. "Forensic Interview" can be an intimidating phrase, but the goal of a forensic interview is to gather information regarding the allegations in a way that does not traumatize the child, in an environment that is welcoming and warm. The interview consists of a trained professional talking with a child regarding concerns or allegations of maltreatment in a developmentally appropriate, non-threatening, non-leading, child-friendly manner. The interviews assist the Department of Human Services and law enforcement in child abuse investigations. In addition, our interviewers have received advanced training in forensic interviewing, which includes training in child development, memory and suggestibility, linguistics, and child trauma

The family support program provides services to non-offending caregivers of children interviewed at the Center. A Family Support Worker will sit with the non-offending caregiver while their child is being interviewed.

• A supportive, welcoming and child-friendly environment
• Emotional Support
• Crisis Intervention
• Referrals for counseling or any other services needed (i.e. domestic violence shelters, parenting classes, restraining orders, housing, etc.)
• Information about victim compensation
• Information about child protection and the criminal system
• Education about age appropriate sexual behavior
• Follow-up support and help as needed