The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) is a group of professionals working together to investigate and prosecute cases where child sexual abuse or serious physical abuse is alleged or suspected. Our team-oriented approach coordinates the efforts of all professionals involved in the investigation and prosecution process of child abuse, including but not limited to, the police, DCF, prosecutors, treatment providers and medical professionals. When additional services are required, contacts are made with appropriate providers and programs.
The Greater Waterbury CAC Director: Stacey Rubinfeld, Waterbury Youth Services (203)573-0264
The CAC Investigation Process
Forensic Evaluation
Children may be interviewed by a trained forensic interview specialist at Waterbury Youth Services. The interview
is videotaped to reduce the number of interviews to which a child is subjected.
Medical Evaluation
A physical examination may be conducted by a licensed medical practitioner trained in forensic medical examinations.
Family Services
The child and family will be provided with information and services pertinent to counseling during and after the investigative process.
Case Coordination
The case will be tracked to ensure that the child is protected and the family has access to appropriate services.
Interdisciplinary Team
Prosecutor, State’s Attorney’s Office - To prosecute adult criminal violators.
Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office - To prosecute juvenile criminal violators with the primary goal of rehabilitating the youth.
Department of Children and Families - To assure that the child is protected.
DCF Attorney - To advise DCF investigators of appropriate legal action and to educate the team on DCF policies and procedures.
Local Police Departments - To investigate possible criminal violations.
Medical Personnel - To provide forensic medical exams, diagnosis and treatment of abused or neglected children.
Director - To organize and facilitate team meetings and trainings, and ensure that the team is meeting the standards for Connecticut Multidisciplinary Teams.
Investigative Interviewer - To conduct videotaped interviews of children using a standardized forensic interviewing format.
Safe Haven - To provide supportive counseling, education and referrals for the child and the parent.
Mental Health Professionals - To provide information on the treatment of abused/neglected children and therapeutic services where indicated.
Team Approach
- Ensures that appropriate safety measures are taken to protect the child.
- Children receive prompt mental health and medical treatment that is tailored to their specific needs and family situations
- More caregivers are empowered to protect their children.
- More offenders are held accountable.
- Professionals gain a better understanding and respect for each other’s roles and expertise.
- More effective decisions are made by sharing professional knowledge and expertise.
- The decision to prosecute is based on input from the child and family, as well as other CAC team members.
- Allegations of abuse are more thoroughly investigated.
- Cases are more quickly addressed and are less likely to "fall through the cracks" in the system.
Bridging Program
The Bridging Program is an evidence-based, trauma-focused mental health intervention for child victims and their families.