Family Violence & Child Abuse Bureau

The Family Violence and Child Abuse Bureau investigates and prosecutes crimes involving domestic violence, and all serious crimes committed against children under the age of fourteen. The Bureau was created in 1989 as the Child Abuse Bureau. In recognition of the strong correlation between domestic violence and child abuse, the Bureau was expanded in 1995 to form the Family Violence and Child Abuse Bureau.

Child Abuse Cases:

The Bureau handles investigations, arrests, and prosecutions of serious crimes against children under the age of fourteen, whether committed by family or non-family members. Each of the attorneys in the Bureau receives specialized training in dealing with the sensitive issues that child abuse presents. The Bureau works closely with child protective teams in hospitals, the Administration for Children's Services (ACS), and the Police Department. In addition, members of the Bureau also lecture throughout the city on child abuse issues.

The Bureau also investigates and prosecutes individuals who sexually exploit children via the Internet. Children are exploited on the Internet through the manufacture and distribution of child pornography, and by persons who seek to make contact with children online for the purpose of engaging them in sexual activity. The Bureau now prosecutes numerous such crimes each year. Staff from the Bureau are available to provide lectures and training about Internet safety to teachers, parents, and children.

Domestic Violence Cases:

The Office investigates and prosecutes thousands of domestic violence cases each year. ADAs who prosecute domestic violence cases are specially trained in various aspects of these cases, including how to interview victims, how to prosecute cases without the victim's cooperation, and how to present expert witnesses in the courtroom.

Information for Witnesses & Victims of Child Abuse

Information for Witnesses & Victims of Domestic Violence

See the Domestic Violence brochure in *.pdf