“One of the things I find most compelling about the CAC of Rockingham County is its grassroots origin; it was created by people who know their community. Child abuse is reprehensible, and unfortunately, the abuse that these kids suffer is often just the beginning of a very difficult road moving forward. The CAC model requires accountability and collaboration between multiple agencies responsible for protecting the well-being of children, while balancing the interests of all parties to find the truth of the matter and proceed forward according to what is in the best interest of all parties involved. When children make disclosures through this process, offenders are more likely to provide a confession, prosecution rates go up, and convictions of those who perpetrate crimes against children are more frequently obtained.”
CHIEF ED GARONE
“Sometimes all you need is someone who will believe you... When I entered the Child Advocacy Center, I was surrounded by helpful hands, advocates ready to listen. Throughout my life, I’ve heard people deny that abuse happened. Sometimes we shrug off things that our body or mind can’t handle or process. However, abuse does happen, and it is real. I was sexually abused by my father when I was a little girl. I was brainwashed into thinking nothing would come of it if I told anyone. I was told no one would believe me, and that I’d be in trouble. However, my life was forever changed when I met a child advocate who told me the exact words that I needed to hear: “It’s not your fault,” and “Everything will be okay”. They explained the interview process. There was not a single moment during my time at the child advocacy center that I didn’t feel safe. The advocate was kind and sweet. I just knew that was going to be the day they would help me. I was right. I was no longer alone and no longer had a big secret I needed to hold in. I had someone who believed my story! She took the time to hear my every word and supported me throughout the interview. They changed one little girl’s life forever, and I know they have and will do the same for other children.”
MELISSA
Tell me now it’s untrue, what did her daddy do? He jacked a little bitty baby the man has got to be insane.
“Janie’s Got A Gun” by Aerosmith
In the lyrical verses, somewhere before the slamming power chords and in-between the intoxicating rhythmic drumbeat comes the socially conscious message in a song that continually reminds us of the unbelievable horror a child experiences at the hands of their tormentor. Some people fluff off the message by saying it’s only rock and roll – I don’t, and I am associated with an organization that does not either.
The Child Advocacy Center is an organization devoted to protecting children. In the years I have had the opportunity of working with them, I have found the staff to be professional, dedicated, well-trained, and team-oriented towards the goal of assisting law enforcement, children, and their families. It is such a comfort to know there is an organization that I can reach out to and assist me in investigating the complexity of child sexual assault.
DETECTIVE RICK LABELL
