BEGINNING YOUR INVESTIGATION
- Be familiar with agency guidelines and Georgia statutes
- State law requires every county to have a child abuse protocol
- Know the resources available in the community (child advocacy centers, victim witness, therapist, etc.)
- Review any available material relevant to the case:
- How, when, and by whom was the abuse reported.
- Child protective services history--confidentiality laws do not apply to child abuse investigations.
- Criminal history of suspect.
- Prior complaints by victim.
- Has the victim had a medical exam.
- Does the child suffer from any learning or mental disabilities.
- Does the child speak the same language as you? If not, then arrange for an interpreter.
- Pick a child friendly location to interview the child:
- Distraction free.
- Informal and private.
- Cheerful and welcoming(if possible).
- Decide who will participate in the interview.
- Aim for only one interviewer if possible.
- Parents, guardians, friends should not be present.
- Avoid wearing your gun while interviewing the child.
- Be sure to follow up on any information obtained in the interview.
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