TEAMS
Multi-disciplinary Investigation Team
The Multi-disciplinary Investigation Team (MIT) coordinates the activities of the agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution of child sexual abuse, while minimizing the secondary trauma to the child. MIT members are trained specialists who meet regularly to discuss individual cases, identify system needs, work cooperatively to improve the investigation and prosecution of cases, and to protect the children. This team response to abuse is designed minimize the trauma of multiple interviews, and to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
Samantha:
Eight year old Samantha told her teacher that her stepfather was touching her “privates”. The teacher, being a mandated reporter, called the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The DCF worker requested a forensic interview for Samantha. Members of the MIT were contacted and an interview was set up for the next day. Through a one way mirror, representatives from the police and DCF observed the forensic interview. In a separate room Samantha’s mother, Jane who was visibly upset, met with an advocate from the Women’s Center. She was struggling with the requirement that her husband must leave the home in order to protect her daughter. Initially Samantha was a bit nervous; however, as information about the interview room, process, and rules were explained she began to relax. Casual conversation to build rapport was followed by the information gathering part of the interview. Samantha gave a detailed disclosure of sexual abuse by her stepfather occurring over a 3 month period. Her disclosure was videotaped in its entirety and left little doubt that abuse had occurred. The interview closed on a positive note as she talked about a school field trip.
After the interview, the investigative team met briefly to discuss the information before speaking with Jane. She was given a chance to ask questions and was told what the next steps might be. Although she was overwhelmed, there were issues which needed to be addressed immediately. Referrals were made for Samantha’s medical exam and mental health counseling and for ongoing support for Jane. After the forensic interview, DCF and the police proceeded with their individual investigations and the case was reviewed at the next MIT coordinators meeting. At this meeting the police reported they had interviewed the stepfather who admitted to some but not all of the incidents. The police had submitted an arrest warrant to the court. DCF reported that Jane had been unaware of the abuse and has been appropriately protecting Samantha since the disclosure. The forensically trained pediatrician assigned to the MIT performed the medical exam. Jane and Samantha began mental health counseling at a local agency and were referred to the Office of Victim Services to help them through the court procedures.
Anna:
Maria and Jose are recent immigrants to the Danbury area. They have 2 children, Anna 6 years old and Juan 1 year old. They have been sharing an apartment with Jose’s sister, Elizabeth and her 14 year old son John, splitting the rent to make it more affordable. Recently Maria noticed stains in Anna’s underwear. When she asked what happened, Anna reported that her cousin John had hurt her “down there.” This information was reported to DCF and an MIT interview and medical exam was set up for the next day. While Anna was interviewed, police and DCF watched from behind a one-way mirror. Anna was clear and consistent with her disclosure of sexual abuse by her cousin John. Anna’s symptoms indicated trauma from the abuse and the family exhibited a great deal of conflict.