The Crimes Against Children Unit is responsible to investigate offenses involving Children under the age of 18 years. The nature of these investigations include juvenile sex crimes, child abuse and child neglect. The detectives assigned to this unit are a group of experienced, highly motivated and dedicated and men and women. They receive specialized training which necessary to investigate these types of offenses.

Many incidents involving suspected child abuse and or neglect are reported through the Department of Children and Families hot line. These reports cover a variety of issues involving children, their treatment and or living conditions. The members of this unit work closely with the Department of Children and Families and their protective investigators to sort out those cases which may be criminal in nature. Many of the reports received through DCF reflect conditions which are considered to be quality of life issues or family in need of services which falls under the jurisdiction of DCF. The Crimes Against Children Unit investigates incidents that are considered to be criminal in nature such as physical or sexual abuse and deliberate neglect.

The Sheriff’s Office also employs a civilian Child Forensic Interviewer as part of the Investigations Section who is specially trained to interview children regarding possible abuse or neglect issues. These interviews are conducted in a setting comfortable to children and are recorded from the beginning to end. These interviews are a significant part of the investigation to determine if a crime has occurred involving a child.