Child Abuse
Investigations
We serve as a unbiased liaison in child abuse investigations
Child abuse investigations are coordinated through a multi agency response. Multidisciplinary members include Law Enforcement, Child Protective Services, Medical, Mental Health, Prosecution, Victim Advocates, and the Children’s Justice Center Staff. The team coordination begins when a child discloses possible child abuse. The child is brought to the center by a non-offending caretaker where they are interviewed by trained professionals. Each child and their family are given resources and support to help them heal from the devastating affects of child abuse.
COORDINATOR
(435) 636-3737
Child Abuse Interviews
Interviews are conducted by forensically trained professionals. All interviews are recorded and protected for evidence.
Suicide Screenings
Children between the ages of 5 and 17 are administered a suicide screening. The purpose of the screening is to identify children who may have thoughts of suicide. The children are then screened for the need of immediate intervention.
Trauma Risk Assessment
Children between the ages of 5 and 17 are administered a trauma assessment. The purpose of the assessment is to identify children who may be struggling with trauma. Children are then screened for the need of trauma treatment services.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESPONSE TO CHILD ABUSE
Each child abuse case that is brought to the center undergoes an extensive review of the case. The purpose of the review is to identify further resources for the family, additional investigation for prosecution, and a positive outcome for the family.
Medical Services
A child's health and safety is the Children's Justice Center's primary concern. Each child who presents at the Children's Justice Center as an alleged victim of child sexual or physical abuse will be screened for the need of a medical exam. All medical exams are provided by people who are trained to work with children who may have been abused or assaulted. Medical exams may be requested by law enforcement, Child Protective Services, or medical professionals. The purpose of the exam is to help identify possible injuries or infections, and to collect evidence. Victims are not charged for the exam itself.