Trauma can complicate investigations and prosecutions, especially in coercive environments like cults, trafficking networks, and other high-control settings. This workshop covers trauma-related barriers, communication with reluctant witnesses, and evidence-gathering and trial-prep strategies that prioritize safety and account for trauma’s impact on disclosure and testimony.

With rapid advances in AI, new digital threats are creating fresh challenges for MDTs. Led by a former prosecutor, this workshop unpacks the investigative and legal implications of emerging technologies in sexual exploitation and abuse cases.

Build courtroom confidence and credibility with a workshop tailored for MDT members—especially law enforcement, social services, and forensic interviewers. You’ll learn practical strategies for cross-examination, avoid common testimony pitfalls, and sharpen clear, effective communication with judges and juries.

Despite the presence of corroborating evidence in every child sexual abuse case, child protection professionals often miss the full potential of this vital component. This workshop taught by a former prosecutor equips attendees to maximize various underutilized avenues of corroboration, focusing on forensic interviews, internet of things (IoT) devices, numerous other forms of digital evidence, and tools for practitioners.

Cases involving youth with problematic sexual behavior are tragically common for prosecutors, forensic interviewers, and other MDT members. However, addressing these cases effectively presents complex challenges and considerations. This workshop, taught by a former prosecutor, offers relevant research and tactics for appropriate intervention and prosecution.

Darkest Before Dawn cuts through the unrelenting challenges of child abuse work—online exploitation, AI-driven threats, strained systems—to show what’s actually shifting and why hope is warranted. It delivers grounded strategies, systemic clarity, and practical steps to move child advocacy from perpetual crisis toward lasting impact.

Religious or spiritual themes are often weaponized by perpetrators to justify the abuse of children, and are invoked to avoid accountability and consolidate power within faith communities. This workshop provides best practices, recent trends, and practical tips and corroboration strategies for MDTs to navigate these issues.