Our Outcomes
How Reports Were Handled Before the CAC
- FCS receives a report - interviews child; contacts Law Enforcement if child discloses or assistance is needed. Child is then re-interviewed.
- Law Enforcement receives a report, then interviews child. If child discloses abuse, inter-office memo is sent to FCS. Child is re-interviewed.
- If child is unsafe in his/ her home and FCS receives custody, child may be re-interviewed.
- Referrals made for medical exams-child is asked additional questions.
- Any alleged criminal cases staffed with prosecutor. Child may be re-interviewed for further information.
- Referrals made for therapeutic care, child is asked more questions.
- Children being interviewed multiple times by many different people which creates additional trauma
- Children being interviewed in cold, sterile environments; at times, in the home where the abuse occurred
- Interviewers not specially trained
- Lack of communication and coordination amongst the agencies making decisions
- Non-offenders being given differing information from many agencies which leads to confusion, lack of trust, etc.
How Reports are Handled Through the CAC Model
- FCS or Law Enforcement receives a report regarding child sexual abuse and / or severe physical abuse
- FCS or Law Enforcement makes referral to the CAC and a centralized, multi-disciplinary process begins
Outcomes
- Prompt and consistent response to reports
- Reduction in the number of child interviews (recorded interviews)
- Interviewed in a safe, child-friendly atmosphere
- Professionals are trained annually on topics related to child abuse
- Collaboration and shared Information leads to higher rates of prosecution
- Communication and coordination of services provided
- Regularly Scheduled Multidisciplinary Team Meetings: Comprehensive Information Sharing and Decision-Making