Special Victims Unit (SVU)

I would choose to work in the Special Victims Unit (SVU). I have always been interested in crimes against children; since, being the survivor of child abuse made me the advocate I am today. Training and a special skill-set is mandatory for SVU detectives; ergo, they must be expert investigators and have a deep understanding of the sensitivity of child abuse investigations. Initial and ongoing training is essential among SVU investigators providing up-to-date interviewing and investigative techniques and strategies essential for coordinating multi-disciplinary teams as to ensure full victim restoration. Training would include: •Crime scene investigations •Forensic interviewing •Internet crimes against children •Medical evaluations of child victims

The initial step to a successful SVU investigation is the investigation itself; however, often this is not the case. A review of the New Orleans PD by the inspector general found that from 2011 to 2013, five detectives from SVU filed investigative reports in only 14% of sexual assaults and child abuse cases assigned to them (). Most were mis-classified as miscellaneous and simply closed without any investigation in all. For example in a case where a 2-year old was taken to the emergency room after a sexual assault and tested positive for an STD, the detective in the case reported that the toddler could not disclose any information and closed the case (). Sloppy investigations by ill-trained detectives who are not properly supervised results in lack of justice for the most

SUV is responsible for gathering admissible evidence for the prosecution so that the crime can be brought to court. Additionally, SVU detectives are on call 24/7 to assist law enforcement in emergencies or part of a rapid response team whenever there is a death of a child. In these cases it is imperative that a detective not allow emotions to over-rule logic and the rule of law. Despite the United States having one of the most extensive legal systems in the world, it has been my experience that it is flawed regarding child/abuse and neglect. The statutes and sentencing guidelines in may states do not reflect real justice for the victim. Regardless of the challenges, if I were to be a detective, I would with certainty want to work in a