NCJ Number
189470
Date Published
2000
Length
700 pages
Annotation
This looseleaf document presents the agenda and training modules for a 5-day training program developed to provide background information and step-by-step instructions for the investigation of fatal child abuse and neglect.
Abstract
The program begins with an overview of fatal child abuse and neglect, with emphasis on current statistics, reasons why true prevalence of fatal maltreatment is probably underestimated, differences between fatal maltreatment and typical homicides, common types of cases, and sudden infant death syndrome. The second module explains the information on the initial response as well as the subsequent interviews of witnesses and medical professionals. The module also discusses the importance of report writing and courtroom testimony. Further modules demonstrate the forensic evidence found at the crime scene, the death location, and vehicles used to transport the child and detail the role of child protective services in the investigation of child fatalities and homicides. Further modules focus on investigative techniques and strategies necessary for developing a solid criminal case against the perpetrator, with emphasis on interviews and interrogations. Other modules focus on the medical aspects of child fatality investigations and issues that arise from the investigation and prosecution of these cases, with emphasis on the significance of the prosecutor-investigator team and the relationship between the prosecutor and child support constituencies. The final module focuses on case management and model approaches to interagency collaboration. Figures, tables, and reference lists