Intervention Services
Forensic Interview
Successful prosecution of child abuse cases begins with a thorough investigation. At the core of that investigation, the ability to ensure the safety and protection of children often starts with the initial forensic interview conducted by a trained professional at The Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester.
Successful prosecution of child abuse cases begins with a thorough investigation. At the core of that investigation, the ability to ensure the safety and protection of children often starts with the initial forensic interview conducted by a trained professional at The Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester.
Forensic Interview
Intervention Services
What is a Forensic Interview?
The forensic interview is a child-friendly conversation conducted by a specially trained professional who will meet one-on-one with the child. The interview room has a corresponding observation room where law enforcement and/or CPS observe.
The forensic interview's purpose is to determine if a crime occurred and to obtain accurate information presentable in any potential legal proceedings in the case.
The interviewer will establish a comfortable rapport and allow the child to speak about the allegations. The interview will be legally sound and of a neutral fact-finding nature. The interviewer is trained to ask age-appropriate questions that are non-leading. The forensic interview is trauma informed and is always in the best interest of the child.
Forensic Interview Protocol
The forensic interviewing protocol is intended to be a framework for professionals who interview children. State statutes, court decisions and local practice, and the case’s specifics, including child’s developmental ability, may dictate modifications.
A forensic interview should be conducted when:
A child is a witness or victim of physical abuse, sexual abuse, human trafficking, child sexual abuse material or witness to a violent crime resulting in a law enforcement and/or CPS investigation.
A person over the age of eighteen with a developmental disability, delayed disclosure, history of trauma or any other purpose as determined by the Multidisciplinary Team.
Forensic interviews are conducted with children ages 2 years, 9 months through 17 years of age, as per the ChildFirst® protocol. Children younger than age 3 and older than 17 years of age are evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if a forensic interview is developmentally appropriate and/or in the best interest of the individual. The interview process is designed to be accessible for children and adults who have intellectual or developmental disabilities.
What to Expect
The Forensic Interviewer will meet with non-offending caregivers prior to and following the forensic interview to discuss case dynamics, interview findings, recommendations, next steps, and a plan for safety.
Documentation of the interview will be completed and shared amongst appropriate team members complying with their agency protocols.
Forensic Interviewers will follow medical best practice standards by making referrals and assisting with coordination of medical appointments with REACH.
Alleged Suspects and Perpetrators
Interviews of known alleged suspect/alleged perpetrators will not be conducted at the CACGROC.
Cases involving child victims who also may be considered youth with problematic sexual behaviors (YPSB) will be assessed and interviewed accordingly. YPSB will only be interviewed at the CACGROC regarding their own potential victimization.
Forensic Interviews are conducted with children ages 2 years, 9 months through 17 years of age, as per the ChildFirst® protocol. Children younger than age 3 and older than 17 years of age are evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if a forensic interview developmentally appropriate and/or is in the best interest of the individual. The interview process is designed to be accessible for children and adults who have intellectual or developmental disabilities.
The forensic interviewing protocol is intended to be a framework for professionals who interview children. State statutes, court decisions and local practice, and the case’s specifics, including child’s developmental ability, may dictate modifications.
Forensic Interview Protocol
A forensic interview should be conducted when:
A child is a witness or victim of physical abuse, sexual abuse, human trafficking, child sexual abuse material or witness to a violent crime resulting in a law enforcement and/or CPS investigation.
A person over the age of eighteen with a developmental disability, delayed disclosure, history of trauma or any other purpose as determined by the Multidisciplinary Team.
