Detective Houston Police Department - Crimes Against Children Unit
Part one of this case study will explore two separate, but similar severe physical abuse investigations of young children in the Houston area who were “hiding in plain sight”. The discussion will include details on the type of abuse, torture, and injuries each child endured, how their abuse went unnoticed for months and possibly years; as well as CPS and law enforcements failure to recognize early signs of child abuse. We will discuss how law enforcement was ultimately notified, and each child rescued. Part two focuses on building a solid criminal case when all you have are injuries and the child victim won’t talk, importance of witness interviews and medical records, building a timeline to determine a suspect, and working within a multidisciplinary team approach early on. We will look at the charges accepted in each case, as well as the decision whether or not to use the Texas charging statute of Injury to a Child by Omission. Additionally, the presenters will share how each case affected them personally and how they selfcare while working child abuse investigations.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the importance of working within a multidisciplinary team approach early on in child abuse investigations.
Demonstrate a victim centered investigative approach and demeanor while conducting child abuse investigations.
Recognize vicarious trauma and understand the importance of selfcare while working child abuse investigations.
