ABOUT US

Our primary purpose at the Child Advocacy Center, or CAC for short, is to help victims of sexual abuse, regardless of age. We also work with children who are victims of egregious physical abuse. We want to help reduce stress and trauma a survivor and their family may be feeling; and assist them in getting whatever support they need as they heal. The CAC is available to provide support from disclosure to disposition, and beyond. 

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The CAC is co-located with the SIU (Special Investigations Unit) for Bennington County. The two detectives that work in our office conduct all sexual abuse cases. If the case involves a child, then the SIU works with DCF investigators (Department of Children and Families).

Our SIU and DCF investigators are trained to conduct interviews in a trauma- informed way. They work together so that the number of interviews is limited. 

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Our Mission and Philosophy

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 The Bennington County Child Advocacy Center and Special Investigations Unit (BCCAC/SIU) is a multidisciplinary team (MDT) that ensures children and families involved in sexual abuse or egregious physical abuse cases receive child-friendly services from law enforcement, prosecution, protective services, and receive timely and effective counseling. These cases require sepcial expertise in the area of investigation and services proactively investigates these cases and emphasizes prevention through education and training. The operations of the BCCAC/SIU promote cooperative efforts between municipalities, police, prosecutor's office medical community, child protective services, schools, and other advocacy groups.

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The purpose of this guide is to establish consistency, accountability and collaboration among professionals who work with cases involving sexual assault and egregious physical abuse. The goal is to conduct quality investigations; to reduce stress and trauma to the victims; and protect the victim and the community.

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