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Forensic Interviews

Assessing abuse and safety.

A forensic interview may be conducted at the Center after a report of sexual abuse has been made to law enforcement or Children’s Protective Services (CPS). 

  • Forensic interviewers are trained in the State of Michigan Forensic Interviewing Protocol.
  • Forensic interviews are intended to elicit detailed information about a possible event(s) a child may have experienced. 
  • Forensic interviews help assess whether a child has been abused, develop a plan for the child’s safety, and lay the groundwork for the criminal prosecution of the abuser. 

The interview process is developmentally sensitive, unbiased and truth-seeking to support the fair and accurate decision-making in the criminal justice and child welfare systems.

The process tests any alternative explanation for the allegation(s) in order to allow for a thorough investigation.

On-Site Partners

It’s important for Law Enforcement and Children’s Protective Services (CPS) to be on-site at our Center for several reasons:

  1. Coordinated Response: Having both law enforcement and CPS on-site allows for a coordinated approach to child sexual abuse cases. This means investigations can be more efficient and collaborative, reducing the stress and trauma for the child.
  2. Child-Centered Approach: By working together in one location, law enforcement and CPS can prioritize the child’s needs and ensure their well-being is at the forefront of any decisions made during the investigation.
  3. Streamlined Processes: Having these agencies on-site can streamline processes, such as viewing the child’s interview in real-time, reducing the need for the child to repeat their story multiple times.
  4. Immediate Support: With both agencies present, any immediate needs the child has, are able to be addressed more quickly.
  5. Communication and Collaboration: On-site presence allows for better communication and collaboration between law enforcement, CPS, and Center staff, leading to more effective case support for the child.
  6. Training and Expertise: Law enforcement and CPS bring their expertise in investigations and child welfare to the Center, which can lead to better outcomes for the child and their family.