Sex Crimes / Child Sexual Abuse

• Family Violence
• Download "Sexual Assault" Pamphlet
• Download "AIDS Testing Notification" Pamphlet
• Download "Child Abuse" Pamphlet
• Download "Child Abuse Reporting" Pamphlet

Sexual crimes and child sexual abuse are among the most devastating of crimes. Through their criminal acts, sex crime and child sexual abuse offenders can inflict severe physical, emotional, and psychological trauma on their victims. The effects can be long-lasting; the healing process can be an arduous one.

The District Attorney’s Office understands this and vigorously seeks justice for victims of sexual assault and child sexual abuse. The Sex Crimes Division has experienced, specially trained attorneys dedicated solely to the prosecution of sex crimes and child sexual abuse cases within the Central District. The District Attorney’s Victim Impact Program ensures that specially trained prosecutors handle sexual abuse cases throughout all other parts of the County. Whether handled by the Sex Crimes Division or the Victim Impact Program, cases are vertically prosecuted. This means that one specialized deputy district attorney who understands the psychological impact of sexual crimes handles the case from beginning to end. In the midst of their ordeal, therefore, victims need to deal with only one attorney and will always know whom to call with a question.

Because many sexual assailants are repeat offenders, it is important that victims report sexual assaults to their local police or sheriff’s station. By reporting crimes, victims help bring an attacker to justice and prevent further offenses. Reporting a crime and cooperating with the police also makes victims eligible for free counseling and for compensation from the state’s fund for victims of violent crime. The District Attorney’s Victim-Witness Assistance Program has victim service representatives who will help sexual assault and child sexual abuse victims utilize all the resources available to them and ensure that their rights are protected.

Sexual Assault Hotlines