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A forensic interview is an interview that is recorded while it’s being conducted.
The main purpose of forensic interviews is to reduce or eliminate the amount of times that a child is interviewed thereby minimizing additional trauma to the child and his/her family while ensuring procedural fairness to those accused of abuse.
During a forensic interview, facts or details of abuse are collected from a child who has allegedly been the victim of child abuse or sexual abuse. This information can then be shared with other professionals (child protection workers, law enforcement officers, prosecuting attorneys, etc.) involved in the case without having to repeatedly interview the child.
Parents/guardians are not permitted to watch or view the interview. Members of the team will speak with parents/guardians following the interview to answer any questions and discuss what procedures will be taken next.
Children are interviewed in a child-friendly atmosphere by a child interview specialist (also known as a forensic interviewer) who has had extensive training and is certified as a specialist. Any discussion the child interview specialist has with children is recorded while the investigative team is observing in another room.
The children are first priority at Wynona’s House and are always made to feel safe, secure and welcome.
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