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SEXUAL ASSAULT UNIT
The Adams Police Department's Sexual Assault Unit consists of two patrol personnel and a sergeant/supervisor. The unit investigates both child and adult rapes and indecent assaults. Due to the sensitive nature of these types of crimes, each officer receives specialized training in interviewing techniques, evidence-collecting, court preparation and offender profiling, (used mostly in child sexual abuse cases).
The SAU works closely with the Berkshire County District Attorney's Office during an investigation of an adult sexual assault as well as with various women's advocacy groups, particularly the Elizabeth Freeman Center. In child sexual assault cases the SAU utilizes the SAIN Network (Sexual Assault Intervention Network) which involves the DA's office, the Department of Social Services and The Kids' Place Child Advocacy Center in Pittsfield. The four entities (police, court, DSS and child advocacy) sit in on one interview of the child victim together, greatly reducing the number of times he/she has to tell and relive the ordeal.
The members of the sexual assault unit are Sgt. Shawn Briggs and Officers Alan Vigiard and Donna Malloy. If you have any questions, feel free to contact one of them.
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