NCJ Number
213164
Date Published
March 2000
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the development, structure, and operations of Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) in Indian Country.
Abstract
Over the course of their development in the last 15 years, CACs have reformed the way cases of child sexual and physical abuse are handled. The overall goal of CACs is to reduce trauma to child victims through a sensitive and effective coordination of the investigation, prosecution, and intervention in child abuse cases. The key feature of the CAC approach to child abuse cases is the use of a multidisciplinary team. Professional representatives from five disciplines--law enforcement, prosecution, medical, child protection services, and mental health--work as a team to ensure that the best interests of the child victim are served in the management of cases. In 1994 the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers was created to support the development of CACs throughout the country. There are currently 400 CAC programs operating in the United States. Some tribal communities have noted the success of the CAC approach and have developed reservation CAC-type programs. The distinctive needs of tribal programs include addressing the complicated issues of jurisdiction in Indian Country; community ownership and commitment to the CAC; sensitivity to culture and tradition; and the need to provide services over large geographic areas. Resource concerns include multiple agencies that are responsible for law enforcement services, child protection, and medical services; lack of funding; and lack of available office space. Tribal communities, the Federal Government, and the National Network of Children's Advocacy Centers are working together to address these resource needs. 2 references and a listing of additional resources