The core of our mission is to speak for, to help, and to protect the most vulnerable members of our community. This means that when a child discloses abuse, instead of having to go from agency to agency telling their story several times, the child is brought to a friendly, neutral facility where their needs come first.
Highly specialized staff will facilitate a forensic interview; and if needed, a medical examination. It is through the Children's Advocacy Center that families will be provided information regarding case tracking, referrals for services, and support from our compassionate and dedicated staff. The purpose of the CAC forensic interview is to obtain information from a child regarding allegations of abuse. Forensic interviews are facilitated in a manner that is developmentally and culturally sensitive, unbiased, fact-finding, and legally sound.
The forensic interview provides critical evidence for both criminal and civil child protection investigations. Information from the interviews may also identify other victims, assist professionals responsible for assessing risk, reveal safety needs of children and families, and facilitate case management decisions. Child Sexual Abuse Medical Examinations:. A medical evaluation holds an important place in the multi-disciplinary assessment of child abuse. An accurate and complete history is essential in making medical diagnoses and determining appropriate treatment of child abuse.
Because many children are familiar with the helping role of doctors and nurses, they may disclose information to our medical personnel that they might not share with investigators.
The strength of the multi-disciplinary team is the divergent perspective and unique expertise that each team member brings to the group as a whole. These cases are discussed in detail by the team members allowing them to share information, update the case status, and discuss how to proceed with the case. The main objective being to do what is best for the child. The focus is to provide intervention and support to assist the non-offending caregiver.
