Director of Program Services Alliance For Children
In the State of Texas v. Joe Tiner, a victim came forward to report she was sexually abused 15 years earlier. During the LE investigation, additional prior victims were uncovered. Critical evidence was obtained by interviewing the family of the defendant. Years of being overlooked and not prioritized caused complications in obtaining information and presenting it at trial, including the defendant’s role as a pastor in the community. An understanding of the dynamics at play within each of the witnesses (family members, other victims, bystanders) was critical to getting their cooperation at trial to successfully prosecute this prolific offender.
Learning Objectives:
Gain a greater understanding of how to investigate and prosecute child sexual assault cases that are not reported until the survivor reaches adulthood.
Develop an understanding of the dynamics at play when a survivor waits to report and develop insight into why they report.
Observe how a thorough law enforcement investigation can be successful decades after the abuse occured and the role it plays in corroboration of witness statements
