Brad's Blog

Brad Carlyon, Navajo County Attorney

A Beacon of Hope for Child Abuse Victims

Why the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center Matters: A Beacon of Hope for Child Abuse Victims

Child abuse is a deeply troubling reality that affects our society in profound ways. As your Navajo County Attorney, I have seen firsthand the importance of creating a safe haven for child abuse victims – a place where their voices are heard, their needs are met and justice is sought. In this blog post, I want to shed light on why the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center (FAC) matters and the critical role it plays in ensuring the well-being of the most vulnerable members of our society – our children.

A Safe Space for Healing. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center serves as a sanctuary where child abuse victims can find safety, support and solace. The FAC is specifically designed to provide a child-friendly environment, minimizing the trauma experienced by victims during the investigative process. From the moment a child enters the FAC, they are met with compassion, understanding and a commitment to their well-being.

Multidisciplinary Approach: A United Front. One of the unique strengths of the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center is its multidisciplinary approach. Professionals from various fields, including law enforcement, child protective services, medical professionals, victim advocates, and prosecutors, come together as a united front for every victim that enters the FAC doors. This collaborative effort ensures that every aspect of a case is thoroughly examined, enabling a comprehensive and holistic response to child abuse.

Forensic Interviews: Giving Voice to the Vulnerable. Forensic interviews conducted at the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center provide child abuse victims with a safe space to share their experiences. These interviews are conducted by specially trained professionals who understand the unique needs of children and tailor their approach accordingly. By creating a controlled and supportive environment, these interviews empower children to communicate their truths without re-traumatization.

Medical Examinations: Prioritizing Physical and Emotional Well-Being. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center offers medical examinations performed by skilled medical professionals who prioritize both the physical and emotional well-being of child abuse victims. These examinations are conducted with sensitivity and care, focusing not only on evidence collection but also on providing comfort and support to the child throughout the process.

Prevention and Education: Shaping a Safer Future. The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center is not only dedicated to addressing cases of abuse but also to preventing future incidents. By providing community education, raising awareness and training professionals, these centers contribute to a culture of prevention. Empowered with knowledge, communities are better equipped to recognize, report and prevent child abuse.

The Navajo County Family Advocacy Center stands as a beacon of hope, shining a light on the darkness of child abuse and providing a path toward healing, justice, and prevention. The FAC embodies a collective commitment to safeguarding our children, empowering them to overcome trauma, and shaping a future where abuse is eradicated. I am proud to collaborate with the FAC and advocate for its vital role in our county. Together, we work toward a world where every child's well-being is cherished, their voices are heard and their futures are filled with promise.