The Investigation

Following are the basic steps to an investigation of sexual abuse:

1) Someone reports suspicion of abuse to authorities, either Law Enforcement or the Department of Human Resources (DHR).

2) A forensic interviewer conducts the interview of a child instead of law enforcement and a social worker.

3) Medical exams are conducted, if necessary.

4) The child is referred for further evaluation at Child Protect, if necessary. The child advocate will assign you to a counselor.

5) Law enforcement and DHR will continue the investigation, which will include an interview with the alleged offender, if possible.

6) A team of professionals (MDT) will meet to discuss the case and decide how to manage the case. The team consists of doctors, prosecutors, law enforcement, social workers, mental health professionals, and Child Protect Staff.

7) The case may be referred to Civil or Criminal Court or sometimes other plans may be made for managing the case.