The Investigation Process
The Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County makes referrals to other community agencies that offer services to help your child overcome the effects of trauma. Children react differently depending on age, extent of abuse, support form others and their relationship with the offender.
CAC Interview with a Child
The single most important factor affecting the child's recovery is the level of support from the parents or caregivers.
It is this simple. If you do everything you can to support your child, the chances of recovery are much greater. If you feel torn between loyalty to your child and loyalty to the offender, the Child Advocacy Center has services available to help you sort it out.
The following describes the process and basic steps to an investigation of child abuse:
- Someone reports suspicion of abuse to authorities, either law enforcement or the Division for Children, Youth and Families
- An interview with the child is conducted, usually at the Child Advocacy Center
- A medical exam is conducted, if necessary.
- Law Enforcement and/or DCYF continue the investigation, which will include an interview with the alleged offender, if possible.
- A team of professionals will meet to discuss the case and decide how to manage it. This team consists of law enforcement, assistant county attorney's, child protective workers, mental health providers and a medical doctor. The team will stay in contact with your family as the case progresses.
- The case may be referred to District or Criminal Court, or some other plan may be made for managing the case.