Investigating and Prosecuting Sex Offenders

Data from site visits conducted as part of NIJ- sponsored research on the management of sex offenders in the community revealed the need for specialized training for the professionals who investigate and prosecute sex offenders. In addition to the general training, professionals require specific training related to their tasks. Maricopa County's prosecutor established a sex crimes unit in 1986. In 1987, the unit and the Phoenix Police Department together offered training seminars to assist police personnel, child protective service workers, probation officers, and prosecutors in investigating, understanding, and managing sex crime cases. Other jurisdictions asked the Maricopa County training team to present their program in central locations around the State. The Arizona approach has succeeded because of teamwork, sensitivity to victims, increased knowledge that has improved case processing, and networking across the State. Potential barriers to training include resistance to training, lack of funding, and resistance to the team approach. Footnotes