NCJ Number
94317
Date Published
1981
Length
15 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the background and purpose of the Polk County Intra-Family Sexual Abuse Program (ISABP) (Iowa), this paper considers program philosophy, authority for its operation, staffing, and the program's operations.
Abstract
The ISABP, started in October 1980, operates under an informal network of resources, services, and personnel. Authority for the program comes from the County Attorney's Office, and the criteria used have been developed by the 'trouble shooting' committee (which meets weekly to conduct case progress staffings) and its regional advisory board. Rehabilitation of the victim is the primary aim of the program, with treatment of the offender and the family unit being an aspect of victim rehabilitation. Key personnel in the program are the investigative team, the special prosecutor, and the treatment personnel. The agencies involved in the program have agreed to assume the extra responsibilities without additional funding. Admission of guilt is a prerequisite for a defendant's admission to the program. The offender is advised that, in exchange for his cooperation, the county attorney targets that within a 9-month period, the therapy will be complete, and a final disposition of the charge will then be made. The treatment program is directed by mental health personnel at Des Moines Broadlawns Hospital. One of the goals of the therapy is to reunite the family. Although the offender is required to have no unsupervised contact with the victim during the program period, part of the therapy involves face-to-face admitting of wrongdoing to the victim. Official forms and procedural statements used in the program are appended.