NCJ Number
117841
Date Published
1988
Length
90 pages
Annotation
Representatives of law enforcement, victims groups, prosecutors, and social workers who specialize in child molestation cases throughout California testify on California bill AB 326, which would establish a statewide uniform structure for the investigation of child molestation cases.
Abstract
The bill would establish one statewide commission on child molestation and local task forces with the same concern. Local task forces would establish a special investigatory team for each county. This team would have the exclusive jurisdiction to conduct the investigation of child molestation cases. The author of the bill testifies that currently too many child-molestation cases are being lost because of flawed investigative and evidence-collection procedures. He believes the bill, with modifications derived from hearings, can improve these procedures. A representative of the Commission on Peace Officers' Standards and Training testifies on the current guidelines being taught police officers for the investigation of child-molestation cases. He does not see any need to change the current protocol for investigating such cases. Some witnesses oppose the bill because it does not encompass child abuse cases as a whole, and others note that it may restrict local innovation in investigative procedures. Statutory provisions relevant to child witnesses in sexual molestation cases are provided.