The District Attorney recognizes that prosecuting crime on behalf of children is sensitive and highly specialized work. The mission of the Crimes Against Children Division is to seek justice and provide the best possible outcome for these victims and their families. The Crimes Against Children Division is committed not only to the safety of children in our community but also to their long term recovery by working with the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center and its partner agencies.
More than 600,000 children are abused in the United States each year. 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys is a victim of child sexual abuse, and 1 in 10 children will be abused before their 18th birthday. Moreover, studies show that in homes across the country, over 55,000 children a year suffer from physical abuse and approximately 80% of all child deaths that are caused by abuse or neglect are committed by one or more of the child victim’s parents. Depending on the year, approximately 700 cases are filed by Dallas County law enforcement agencies with the Crimes Against Children Division of the Dallas District Attorney’s Office every year.
The Division prosecutes all sexual abuse cases of children, child pornography cases, and child trafficking offenses. Additionally, the Division prosecutes all physical abuse cases committed against children and all child homicides.
The Crimes Against Children Division is comprised of 17 attorneys, 12 investigators, and 7 support staff.
Division members receive specialized training on the dynamics of child abuse and the complex legal issues that arise in these cases.
The law requires every person to make a report if you suspect child abuse or neglect. To make a report of abuse or suspected abuse, contact the Department of Family and Protective Services (CPS) or your local law enforcement agency.
For more information, please visit the links below:
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services
Dallas Children's Advocacy Center
