Mercer County Children's Advocacy Center

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Mercer County Children's Advocacy Center
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  • About Mercer CAC
  • What to Expect
    • Forensic Interview Services
    • Medical Exams
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    • What is Child Abuse and Neglect?
      • Effects of Child Abuse and Neglect
      • Myths and Facts About Child Abuse and Neglect
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      • Preventing Neglect
      • Recognize the Signs of Neglect and Emotional Maltreatment
      • Reporting Neglect
      • Responding to Neglect
    • What is Child Physical Abuse?
      • Preventing Physical Abuse
      • Recognize the Signs of Physical Abuse
      • Reporting Physical Abuse
      • Responding to Physical Abuse
    • What is Child Sexual Abuse?
      • Preventing Sexual Abuse
      • Recognize the Signs of Sexual Abuse
      • Reporting Sexual Abuse
      • Responding to Sexual Abuse
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  • Resources
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What to Expect at the CAC

Homepage What to Expect at the CAC

 

observation roomWhat is the investigative process?

The MDT consists of a group of professionals such as law enforcement officers, assistant district attorneys, advocates, nurses, and a forensic interview specialist. All of these professionals are sensitive to the difficult and confusing time that you and your child may be experiencing. The CYS worker must assess the safety and protection of your child. The forensic interview specialist will ask your child questions and be part of the team discussion following the interview. A nurse will address any medical concerns, and a medical interview room 1 (2)exam is available to every child. The law enforcement officer is from the location where the alleged incident occurred, and along with the assistant district attorney will determine if a crime has been committed and what other investigative steps must be taken. The victim advocate will be your link to supports. The MDT’s overall goal is to complete the investigation in a child friendly, timely and professional manner.

 

 

interview room 3

 

 

What should my child know about the interview?

Children seem to be put at ease by knowing what to expect. It is helpful to inform your child that someone wishes to talk with him or her about what was reported. It is important to reassure your child and give him or her permission to talk freely; however it is equally important not to rehearse with your child or tell your child what to say.

What to expect at the CAC

 

 

family room 1What can I expect immediately following the interview?

At the end of the interview, the CYS investigator and/or law enforcement will inform you about what will happen next. Unless told otherwise, you and your child are free to leave after talking with the investigators. The team will meet and develop a plan. An advocate or the CYS investigator may contact you at a later date with more detailed information.

 

 

interview room 2 (2)What should my child know about the medical exam?

If your child receives a medical examination, explain that this is to make sure that his or her body is healthy. Assure your child that this exam will not hurt and that the medical examiner will tell your child everything that she will be doing prior to the exam.

  • What to Expect
    • Forensic Interview Services
    • Medical Exams
    • Trauma Treatment

ChildLine

Reporting Child Abuse
Call 800-932-0313
(TDD: 866-872-1677)

Copyright ©2018 Mercer County CAC | 8406 Sharon-Mercer Road | Mercer, PA 16137 | (724) 662-1550 | Mercer Country BHC Inc
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