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Forensic interviews are typically the cornerstone of a child abuse investigation. The purpose of forensic interviews are to determine whether or not a crime has occurred and to assess the child's safety.
Determining If a Crime Has Been Committed Generally, three decisions may be made based on the results of a team forensic interview: child protection decisions, criminal charging decisions, and therapeutic and supportive intervention decisions. The goal of the forensic interview is to obtain information upon which to make these determinations, without biasing or misleading the child during the interview. Interviews Conducted in a Child-Friendly Environment Forensic interviews are conducted in a manner which is of a neutral fact-finding nature, and coordinated to avoid duplicative interviewing. The Foothills Alliance offers coordination of these interviews at the Child Advocacy Center to be conducted in our child-friendly, non-threatening environment. See facility photos below. The Center is equipped with a one-way mirror to host the interviews with capacity for several multidisciplinary team members to observe to reduce likelihood of duplicative interviews. Specialized Medical Evalution and Treatment Services Besides obvious investigatory value, specialized medical evaluation and treatment services serve an important function for the well being of the child. In addition to treatment for disease or injury, children often harbor concerns about their bodies and health and express appreciation and relief at the opportunity to address those concerns with a medical professional. Because children learn early the helping role of doctors and nurses, they may disclose information to medical personnel that they might not share with investigators. In addition, non-offending parents may feel reassured following a medical exam. The medical room of the Foothills Child Advocacy Center has a soothing, child-friendly atmosphere. See facility photos below. Photographs of Our Facility
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This website is not meant to be used in lieu of counseling or other professional guidance. This site is for informational and educational use only. To speak with a Foothills Alliance representative, please call (800) 585-8952. Website designed and maintained by Dian Hall. |
