Detective Crimes Against Children Unit, Baltimore County Police
This workshop presented by a nurse and a detective will provide attendees with information on the importance of neurobiology of trauma and its relationship to investigative strategies, as well as the medical-forensic response provided to sex crimes in a victim centered, trauma-informed manner. By understanding the neurobiology and science of the brain, we can better prepare law enforcement officers to conduct better victim interviews. The presenters will discuss how utilizing a multidisciplinary approach is considered best practice, as it provides a collaborative, victim-centered response to these sensitive crimes by reducing the potential for re-victimization, while also beginning the process of healing both physically and emotionally. This presentation will provide a unique perspective at how these cases are handled by different disciplines.
Learning Objectives:
Discuss how trauma impacts brains activity including memory, reactions, and behaviors
Participate in case studies discussing how people react differently to trauma in order to understand that no one reaction is "normal"
Develop trauma-informed techniques that put victims at ease during the investigative and medical-forensic/ evidentiary collection process