How is a forensic interview conducted?

When a child victim and those accompanying him/her arrive at the Chester County Justice Center, they are greeted by a Crime Victims’ Center advocate who will escort them directly to the CAC. Non-English speaking children, and their non-English speaking family members, are greeted by someone who speaks their language. A comfort dog is available to accompany any child if needed.

The CAC family room is a comfortable, child-friendly area with toys, games, coloring books, and other engaging materials. Here, the forensic interviewer introduces him/herself to the crime victim advocate, the child, and the accompanying adult or family. The forensic interviewer then takes the non-offending parent/caregiver into the interview room to explain the forensic interview process. When the non-offending parent/caregiver leaves the interview room, the forensic interviewer escorts the child in. 

The forensic interview room is equipped with digital recording devices, a SMART Board, and anatomically correct drawings and dolls. The number of people in the interview room is limited to make the child feel more comfortable. If a crime victim advocate is requested, the advocate may be present during the interview.

When the interview is complete, the forensic interviewer takes the child to the waiting room to be reunited with the non-offending parent/caregiver. 

Show All Answers

1. What is the Children’s Advocacy Center?
2. What is child abuse?
3. Who is a mandated reporter and what is their responsibility?
4. What should I do if a student tells me they are being abused?
5. What is Childline?
6. What is CYF?
7. What is the Crime Victims’ Center (CVC)?
8. What is a forensic interviewer?
9. How is a forensic interview conducted?
10. What is the multidisciplinary team (MDT)?
11. Will my child see their abuser at the Justice Center or in the CAC?
12. What if my child needs mental health help?
13. If my child was abused, how soon should he/she see a doctor?
14. What kind of medical examination will my child need if he/she was sexually abused?
15. How will the criminal justice system handle my child’s abuser?