Child Abuse

Because victims of sexual abuse need similar attention and care regardless of their age, and because sex crimes against children involve many of the same legal and proof issues as child abuse cases, the same team of prosecutors who handle the prosecution of sex crimes also handle the prosecution of crimes of physical abuse of children. When dealing with child victims it is even more important that the prosecutor assigned to prosecute the case and the victim meet early on during the intake function, and we strive to do that in every case.

Our Sexual Assault Victim Services (SAVS) unit, staffed by specialized victim advocates, also assists child victims through the criminal justice process.

Reports of physical or sexual abuse are received by the State Attorney's office from either a law enforcement agency or the Department of Children and Families. Once such a complaint is received this office works very closely with the investigating agency to establish a rapport with the child victim and put together a prosecutable case.

Where to report abuse/crime:

Florida Abuse Hotline 1-800-962-2873
Department of Children and Families
Local Law Enforcement

Other sites you may wish to visit:

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
FDLE Neighborhood Sexual Offender/Predator Search - enter any address in Florida and search the Florida Sexual Offender/Predator Registry for any registrants with current addresses within a 1 to 5 mile radius.