Learn basic techniques and strategies to enhance the likelihood of obtaining information from possible victims of child sex trafficking. Compare and contrast typical child sexual abuse cases with child sex trafficking (CST) cases and address the different points of entry into the criminal justice and welfare system for CST victims. Understand various disciplines' roles and responsibilities and how they can contribute to a positive outcome of the CST case. Examine question strategy, interview dynamics, language use, and interview suggestions. Discuss the business model of child sex trafficking as it relates to a variety of crimes, including the use of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
This intensive three-hour advanced course provides a focused environment for experienced forensic interviewers to refine and strengthen their practice in child sex trafficking cases. Through expert-led peer review, participants will critically analyze the structure, clarity, and defensibility of their forensic interviews, identify areas for improvement, and implement best practices to enhance the quality and integrity of their work. Emphasis is placed on trauma-informed interviewing techniques, legally sound documentation, and effective communication of complex case details to multidisciplinary partners and within judicial proceedings. Participants will leave with strengthened skills to ensure interviews are developmentally appropriate, victim-centered, and defensible in court.
Child Sex Trafficking (CST) is a crime that is hidden yet in plain sight. First responders are often the first system members to make contact with a CST victim. A CST victim has been heavily groomed for system contact, is fearful of their trafficker, and often not forthcoming about their exploitive situation. Deconstruct the crime of CST and identify common scenarios in which you may come in contact with a CST victim. Discover victim-centered contact practices you can implement which are specific to CST victims. Recognize how to secure vital evidence which may only be available during your initial contact with the victim. Practice group exercises and develop contact and response plans to common scenarios you may encounter.
Child sex trafficking (CST) investigations are often shaped by what is recognized and protected in the earliest moments of contact with victims. Identify the types of evidence critical to a CST investigation and evaluate where preliminary evidence is most likely to be located. Determine appropriate collection methods that preserve integrity. Strengthen early-stage decision-making to protect the evidence-based foundation necessary to disrupt exploitation and support the successful prosecution of those who victimize these missing and exploited children.
First contact with a child sex trafficking victim can either stabilize trauma or compound it. Define what victim-centered means within the context of first responder engagement and examine how early interactions shape cooperation, safety, and long-term case outcomes. Identify behavioral indicators commonly presented by traumatized CST victims, including responses that may be misinterpreted as defiance, indifference, or complicity. Compare and contrast effective and ineffective approaches during victim contact to support trust, reduce re-traumatization, and preserve the integrity of the investigation. Strengthen early response practices that increase the likelihood of safe recovery of the missing child, disclosure of their exploitation, and support successful prosecution of the trafficker.
This is an advanced course. Please make sure you meet the prerequisites before registering. Develop the skills and techniques to conduct developmentally appropriate forensic interviews with victims of child sex trafficking. Learn the differences between interviewing children in child abuse cases and interviewing child sex trafficking victims. Review victim-centered interview methodology with special emphasis given to understanding the factors contributing to child sex trafficking victimization and the impact on development and effects of trauma. Learn to gather information regarding the use of technology in the child sex trafficking business model and the multitude of crimes that traffickers commit, including the use of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
We are excited to share our fifth edition of 2026 for the NCJTC Compass Newsletter! This issue includes Episode 4 of TUYS and upcoming opportunities to register for. We take a look back at impactful events, newsworthy stories, and NCJTC trainings that occurred in May.
We are excited to share our fourth edition of 2026 for the NCJTC Compass Newsletter! This issue highlights National Child Abuse Prevention Month, recap of the 2026 MUPC Conference and our 2025 Impact Report! You'll find upcoming training opportunities, new NCJTC Impact and newsworthy stories.
The AMBER Alert Training and Technical Assistance (T/TA) Program brings you a wide variety of training opportunities to improve the investigative response of local, regional, state, and tribal law enforcement to high-risk victims, children in crisis and the commercial sexual exploitation of youth. Through this program, you will increase collaboration, improve skills, and develop effective policies and best practices to protect and safely recover missing, endangered, and abducted children.
We’re proud to share the NCJTC 2025 Annual Impact Report with you - a reflection of the critical work we’ve accomplished together. Read it today!
