Forensic Interview

A forensic interview with the alleged child victim is the centerpiece of the multi-disciplinary team and child advocacy center work. A forensic interview is a neutral fact-finding assessment of the reported abuse, assault and/or victimization completed by a professional specially trained as a forensic interviewer. Members of the multi-disciplinary team that have jurisdiction over the case observe the interview as it is taking place. Interviews are digitally recorded, reducing the number of times children need to be interviewed, therefore reducing trauma the child victim may experience.

 

Multi-disciplinary Team

The multi-disciplinary team is the key to a CAC. It is made up of representatives from the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County and includes members from law enforcement, child protective services, commonwealth attorney, victim witness advocates, mental health and medical professionals. The multidisciplinary team meets monthly to communicate and collaborate on child abuse and assault cases. Cases are reviewed beginning with intake and/or forensic interview, through investigation, treatment and prosecution.

 

Case Management

We provide crisis intervention and support services to the non-offending family/guardian during the forensic interview appointment as well as provide referrals for services for the child abuse or assault victim and their family/guardian.

 

Prevention & Education

We work to prevent further victimization of children by educating children and families about child abuse. We also provide education about the Advocacy Center to the community.

Stewards of Children Sexual Abuse Prevention Training is a revolutionary prevention training program developed for youth organizations. It is designed to educate adults to prevent, recognize and react responsibily to child sexual abuse. Stewards of Children equips and empowers adults to keep children safe. There is a fee for this training. Go on www.darkness2light.org to learn more about Stewards of Children Training. Please contact Jennifer Kline if you are interested bringing this training to your organization (434) 971-7234.