Our Services

Forensic Interview

A forensic interview is a conversation between a child and a specially trained interviewer at the Pike Regional Child Advocacy Center. The interview takes place with the child in a safe, comfortable, and child-friendly setting about concerns that may have led to a report of abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence.

Forensic Interviews are designed to:

Minimize the number of times a child is directly interviewed
Make the child feel comfortable during interview processes
Help coordinate services for a child and family
Allow caregivers to meet all of the professionals involved with their child and provide an opportunity to ask questions

WHAT TO EXPECT

Knowledge is power

Parents and caregivers should know that forensic interviewers are natural fact finders and they are not counselors, therapists, or investigators. Their role is to gather information that can help law enforcement, the Department of Human Services, medical professionals, or other members of the multidisciplinary team make informed decisions about the child's safety and well-being.

An Interviewer’s Role

The interviewer's job is to listen, ask age-appropriate questions, and give the child an opportunity to share information in their own words. The interview is designed to be conducted one time to reduce the need for children to repeat difficult experiences to multiple people.

Steps in a Forensic Interview:

Before Your Forensic Interview

1

No special preparation is expected by parents or children, unless noted by staff. Communication is mainly handled by DHR (Department of Human Resources) and Pike Regional CAC serves as intermediary.

Upon Arrival

2

When a child arrives at the Child Advocacy Center, the family is greeted by CAC staff. The Family Advocate assists with intake paperwork, as the forensic interviewer greets the child and escorts them to the interview room.

During Your Interview

3

While the interview takes places, the Family Advocate meets with the caregiver or family members to provide support and information

After Your Interview

4

DHR will explain, if any, next steps to the family, without disclosing sensitive information that may harm the children. In addition, follow-up services such as family advocacy or medical exams are open to families, which is welcome to further inquire.

Following Your Interview

5

Any further questions can be directed to DHR, such as case management, court preparation, or law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a report?

To report suspected abuse:

Contact DHR directly
Contact local law enforcement
Complete and submit a Form 1593 to DHR or law enforcement if applicable

What are the hours for forensic interviews?

Interviews are generally conducted during normal business hours:
Monday- Friday, 8:00-4:30 pm

Who can receive a forensic interview?

Children ages 3-18 and vulnerable adults may be eligible for forensic interview services when allegations of abuse or related concerns have been reported to law enforcement or the Department of Human Resources (DHR)

Can parent/caregivers request forensic interview directly?

Concerns about suspected abuse should be reported to DHR or law enforcement. After a report is made, DHR and or law enforcement determine whether a forensic interview is needed and coordinate the Child Advocacy Center.

How is a forensic interview scheduled?

DHR or Law Enforcement contacts the Child Advocacy Center and works collaboratively with CAC staff to schedule an interview at a time that works for the child and family.

How quickly are interviews scheduled?

Interviews are typically scheduled as soon as DHR or law enforcement contact the Child Advocacy Center

What cases may need a forensic interview?

Forensic interviews may be conducted in cases involving:

Sexual abuse
Physical abuse
Neglect
Witnessing a crime
Witnessing Domestic Violence
Other concerns involving child safety and well being