- Are responsible for criminal investigation of cases referred
to the Child Advocacy Center
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- Investigates reports of child sexual and physical abuse
and determines if the child is at risk for further harm.
- Referrals come directly from Washington County Department
of Social Services.
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- Consults with law enforcement and social workers during
investigations. Evaluates cases and decides when criminal
charges will be filed. Handles prosecution of all cases
referred to the Child Advocacy Center.
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- Joint investigations occur after a report has been accepted.
Social Workers, Law Enforcement and a Prosecutor will jointly
interview the child. One professional will conduct the interview
with the child while the other professionals watch the interview
via closed circuit TV. Communication between the interviewer
occur with specialized microphones and hearing devices.
One comprehensive joint interview is completed to reduce
the trauma of multiple interviews.
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- All interviewers are trained in Finding Words Maryland,
this interview process provides a neutral, fact finding,
coordinated interview to avoid duplication of the interview.
Each interview room is set up to complete Finding
Words interview.
Including anatomically correct dolls, anatomical drawings,
easel and note pad.
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- Provides individual and group therapy for children and
non-offending caregivers. Makes referrals to mental health
professionals when necessary.
- All referrals for therapy come through the Child Advocacy
Center
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- Supports and advocates for the child and family. Provides
linkage to other community agencies within Washington County
- .Referrals come through the Child Advocacy Center.
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- On-site forensic medical exams are provided by a pediatrician
and FNE (Forensic Nurse Examiner). The pediatrician and
the FNE are specially trained in the areas of sexual and
physical abuse of children
- Referrals come through the Child Advocacy Center or Child
Protective Services.
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