TranslateDomestic Violence Sexual Assault Unit
The Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Unit prosecutes a variety of crimes including:
- Adult Sexual Assault
- Child Sexual Assault and Child Physical Abuse
- Domestic Violence / Stalking
- Elder Abuse
- Sexually Violent Predators
- Statutory Rape
This unit, comprised of highly skilled and specially trained prosecutors, works closely with law enforcement agencies on violent crimes against women, children and seniors. The unit includes Eight Deputy District Attorneys experienced in handling sexual assault and domestic violence cases, who are supervised by a Chief Deputy District Attorney. The prosecution team includes District Attorney Investigators and Victim/Witness advocates trained in these highly specialized areas. The team handles cases vertically from the initial investigation and review of police reports, through all court proceedings to final disposition. The team also staffs the Domestic Violence Court, whose purpose is to enhance prosecution of spousal abuse or domestic violence cases, and to minimize emotional trauma to victims during legal proceedings.
Teams
The District Attorney serves on numerous multidisciplinary teams to enhance the protection of victims and hold offenders accountable:
Family Violence Prevention Council
A countywide effort, chaired by the District Attorney’s Office and the Sonoma County Superior Court, to reduce and prevent the incidence of family violence and provide support for its victims.
Child Death Review Team
Chaired by the District Attorney’s Office, this team reviews the circumstances surrounding the death of every child in Sonoma County. The team’s mission is to detect child abuse and prevent child injury.
Domestic Violence Death Review Team
This team reviews domestic violence deaths and recommends strategies to help prevent domestic violence deaths. It also helps in dealing with the aftermath of domestic violence death and injuries.
Human Trafficking Task Force (SoCoHTTF)
This multidisciplinary team is comprised of members from law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office and community based organizations.
Redwood Children’s Center
Human Services, Public Health, and the District Attorney collaborate with law enforcement at this child-friendly evidence collection center to minimize the trauma suffered by children in these cases by eliminating the need for multiple interviews.
Sexual Assault Response Team (SART)
This team provides assessment and treatment to survivors of sexual assault. The team approach assures that survivors are subjected to a limited number of interviews and receive care in the most positive environment possible.