Forensic Interviews

What is a forensic interview?

A forensic interview is a legally justifiable, fact-finding interview done at the request of law enforcement or Child Protective Services. Forensic Interviews are conducted by specially trained interviewers employed by the CAC. The interviewers are given minimal information before the interview in order to gather information directly from the child.

What is the purpose of an interview?

Often times children must repeat the details of their nightmare over and over, compounding the initial trauma. The purpose of a forensic interview is to minimize the number of times children must tell their story. Forensic interviewers provide an opportunity for the child to disclose abuse. If the child does disclose that they have been abused, the purpose of the interview is to gather details about their victimization.

Why are the interviews recorded?

The forensic interview is recorded in order to minimize the number of times a victim must detail their trauma. The recording also increases the accuracy of information provided to professionals investigating the case.

All interviews are viewed in “real time” by a CPS caseworkers and law enforcement officers to increase the collaboration and efficiency of the investigation.