Parents Whose children have been sexually abused Community Group

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/ Parents Whose children have been sexually abused Support Group

Fresh wound--advice needed.

angrymom79
angrymom79

My 4 year old disclosed to me 4 days ago that she was sexually abused by my 30 year old brother months ago.  I've reported it to CPS, as well as the police department; what do I do next?  Given her behavior around the perpetrator, her excruciatingly detailed account, and her behavior in general, I haven't a shadow of a doubt that what she's saying is absolutely true.  I'm shocked at the lack of information provided on what to do next.  To add even more confusion to the matter, the crime occurred in a different state.  What are the steps I need to take to ensure that he's locked up and receives the maximum penalty?  Do I need a lawyer?  Should I seek therapy for her prior to the forensic interview or should I wait?  I'm so lost.  Please help me.  

Justitia
Justitia
You honestly can't do anything unless the DA decides to press charges. If you already filed, you can only wait on a response. These matters can take years and may never end. If they can't prove it happened he will probably never get sentenced. Did they do a forensic interview on her?
Justitia
Justitia
Also, since it happened in another state, if that county did file charges you would have to go to where the crime took place and deal with the matter there. You always have to go to court in the county where the crime occured.

If the DA is not willing to press charges I would try that state's attorney general. I just recently learned that they take criminal cases as well. So, maybe they would accept you.
Justitia
Justitia
Overall though, if you are going to have to travel to make your daughter testify in court, you may want to way out some other others, like protect orders and therapy.
angrymom79
angrymom79
We finally set up the forensic interview, in the state where it took place. They gave us the option of doing it here, and sending the info, but we opted to keep it clean and just travel back and forth. Hopefully the DA will decide to take the case, but I will take your advice otherwise--thank you!
Brokenmother
Brokenmother
So sorry. Sending love. You can get through this. I'm in the middle of a court case myself right now. The only advice I have right now is that the police told me not to discuss the disclosure with me or a therapist with my daughter until after her forensic interview..
Brokenmother
Brokenmother
Also you have absolutely made the right decision to travel for the interview. I have learnt the hard way that different jurisdictions allow different evidence into trial.
angrymom79
angrymom79
Thank you. It just seems that adding another link to the chain would cause confusion and possibly give the defense team a leg up--trying to keep it as small as possible. My gut told me not to start therapy prior to the forensic interview for the same reason, and that was confirmed by the detective, so you are correct. Thank you and I wish you luck on your trial. Keep me posted on everything. Big hug.