It is the intent of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office to provide timely and accurate information to victims of sexual assault and to assist them in navigating the criminal justice system.
Victim advocates, who specialize in working with victims of sexual assault/abuse, are employed by the Prosecuting Attorney's Office in the Special Assault Unit. They also assist those who have been victims of felony level domestic violence. These system-based advocates are available to present information and assistance with criminal cases and to provide resource referrals to outside agencies that furnish direct community services to victims of sexual assault/abuse.
When the victim is a child an advocate will contact the custodial parent(s) or guardian of a child victim (after receiving a report) to discuss the status of the case and to provide support and resources. Often times, additional information is needed before the deputy prosecuting attorney can make a charging decision. An advocate may need to set up a time for the victim to talk with a forensic child interviewer. This is a trained child interviewer, who will talk to the victim regarding the assault. These interviews take place the Child Advocacy Center, which is a safe and comfortable environment for children and families. Upon arrival the interviewer will first meet with the parents to gather background information. The child is then interviewed without parents present. Afterward, the interviewer will meet with the parents to discuss the information that was obtained. Interviews are recorded onto a DVD which is povided to the deputy prosecuting attorney.
In most cases, after the forensic interview has been done, the officer or detective assigned to the case will then make contact with the suspect. The officer will complete a report and forward it to the Prosecutor's office. A deputy prosecuting attorney will then review the report and other evidence to make a charging decision. If charges are filed, court proceedings will be scheduled. An advocate will be in regular contact with the victim's family.
