Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month

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936.756.4644
Child Abuse Hotline: 1.800.252.5400

How CAC Models Work

Why is the Children’s Advocacy Center model so important? How does it make a difference for child victims of abuse? At its core, the model is about teamwork – bringing the agency professionals involved in a case together on the front end – and about putting the needs of the child victim first. So rather than having a child taken from agency to agency throughout the law enforcement and child protection systems, and having to endure multiple, sequential interviews, the CAC model brings the system to the child, and brings the agency professionals together to work in a collaborative approach that results in effective, efficient and child-centered casework.

How Does The

CAC Model Work?

Core Function of CAC
Function Provided by a Team Member
Law Enforcement
The role of local law enforcement is grounded in public safety
If not criminal in nature, law enforcement may not take action
Immediate response
Child Protective Services
The role of CPS is to ensure that a child's home is safe
If the family/caretaker is not the alleged abuser, CPS may not take action
Priority Assigned 24-72 Hours
Child is brought to Children's Advocacy Center

Joint Investigation Begins

Forensic Interview

Evidence Collected

Photos Taken

Witness Interview

Medical Treatment and Exam

CAC coordinates Case Review with all team members. including law enforcement, prosecution. Child Protective Services, the forensic interviewer. a mental health provider. a medical professional. and a family advocate
Case presented to District Attorney
Suspect Charged or Case Refused
Child & family receive mental health services—Family advocate works with family to assess critical resources and provide support as the case moves through the justice system
Child Removed from Home, Or Case Opened for Services, Or Case Closed

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