Special Victims Unit

Domestic Violence

The St. Charles County Domestic Violence Section handles cases of violence, harassment and stalking between intimate partners and those related by blood or marriage.

Law enforcement agencies in St. Charles County work with the Prosecuting Attorney's Office in a joint effort to thoroughly investigate and prosecute all crimes of domestic violence.

Evidence Gathering

Due to the challenging nature of these crimes, it is critical that all available evidence is gathered in a timely manner.

This evidence may include obtaining recorded statements of witnesses, photographs, documentation of all injuries, and securing other evidence. These cases are assigned to a team of prosecutors who have specific training and experience prosecuting these important crimes.

Victim Advocate

The Domestic Violence Unit is further dedicated to ensuring that victims going through the criminal justice process are informed and supported and that their concerns are addressed. A dedicated victim advocate is available to assist victims of domestic abuse with obtaining an emergency order of protection.

Sex Crimes and Child Abuse

The Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Section handles crimes of sexual abuse and crimes of sexual or physical abuse against children. These are among the most serious cases handled by the Prosecuting Attorney's Office. These crimes require specialized and complex investigation, as well as in-depth trial preparation.

Vertical Prosecution Model

The Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Section follows a vertical prosecution model meaning one or more prosecutors become involved in the case in the investigatory phase and those same prosecutors maintain the case through conviction.

This section is comprised of professionals who receive specialized training to work with traumatized and child victims, and to reduce the anxiety and uncertainty of crime victims.

Partnership

The Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Section works with the St. Charles County Multi-Disciplinary Team, which coordinates efforts of law enforcement, medical professionals, social workers, mental health providers, juvenile and family court professionals as well as others who work collaboratively to provide insight, guidance and support to victims and families during very difficult times.

The Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Section is committed to aggressive, fair and thorough prosecution of crimes against the most vulnerable citizens of St. Charles County.