Forensic Interviewing

Child-friendly forensic interviews are conducted by an child abuse professionals who have advanced training on the forensic interviewing of child victims/witnesses. Kids’ Space only conducts interviews at the request of law enforcement and Oklahoma Department of Human Services, when there has been a report of child sexual abuse, serious physical abuse, or when a child has witnessed a violent crime.

A forensic interview is a structured conversation with a child intended to elicit detailed information about events that the child may have experienced or witnessed. It takes place in a neutral, child-friendly location designed to help the child feel comfortable. A forensic interview provides the child with an opportunity to tell their story in their own words. It is not an interrogation, but rather a conversation tailored specifically to the child’s age, development level, and any special needs.

During the interview, investigative partners such as law enforcement and social services are able to watch a live feed of the interview in a separate observation room. This collaborative concept is a key element of the nationally recognized child advocacy center model of care that better ensures the child will not have to endure the trauma of multiple interviews by multiple agencies. Recordings of the interview can later be obtained to aid in court proceedings.

First responders, usually law enforcement and child protection, often need to obtain Minimal Facts at a scene or initial response to allegations of abuse. Upon establishing safety and collecting Minimal Facts, a referral can be made for a specialized forensic interview in a child-friendly setting at a CAC. The goal is to minimize trauma to the child and to avoid multiple interviews.

In many cases, general information necessary to ensure child safety may be gathered from guardians/other referral sources, if they are protective of the child. However, if first responders need to talk with the child to assess the child’s safety, emotional state, and physical condition, some tips are outlined below.

Minimal Facts:

A brief description of what happened and next steps

1. Who is/are the alleged perpetrator(s)? Are there witnesses and/or other victims?

2. What happened? Where on the child’s body did the abuse take place (in very brief detail)?

3. When did it happen? Last time it occurred? Frequency?

4. Where did it happen? Establish jurisdiction.

5. What steps are necessary to assure the safety of the child and other potential victims? Are there siblings or others to whom the perpetrator(s) has access?

6. Is immediate medical attention necessary? If abuse has taken place within 72 hours for pre-pubescent children/120 hours for adolescents, a medical exam is necessary to gather evidence.