Area agencies sign Memorandum of Understanding for child abuse investigations

CHENANGO COUNTY – Representatives from several organizations came together Monday at Catholic Charities of Chenango County to sign an agreement for the use of a special interviewing room to aid in the investigation of child abuse cases.

Representatives from local law enforcement agencies, the Chenango County Court System, Chenango Memorial Hospital and the Department of Social Services came together at Catholic Charities to sign a Memorandum of Understanding which serves as a guideline, explaining the responsibilities of each agency involved and allowing the agencies to better coordinate their work and share information. This process is intended to lead to a more thorough, coordinated investigation and to lessen the trauma on the child victims.

According to Multidisciplinary Team Coordinator Tim Hagen, “The multidisciplinary team is an interagency investigative team comprised of professionals from the key disciplines involved in investigating and prosecuting child abuse cases.”

The goal of the team is to coordinate efforts between agencies, providing each with the information they need. “In most cases, the early, coordinated intervention by law enforcement and child protective services leads to increased rates of confession and prosecution,” Hagen said.

The multi-disciplinary team utilizes special resources to minimize the trauma to a child and ensure that they feel supported by the adults in the interview process. The process begins when the law enforcement agency or Child Protective Services hears a complaint. The law enforcement agency, and CPS if the incident involves a family member, begin a joint investigation, and call Catholic Charities for use of the child interview room. The facility is set up with a private entrance in the back of the building, so the child does not have to be exposed to the public.