STAFF: Dolores Heredia

The meeting commenced at 11:40 AM. Leg. Noto opened the meeting and noted that the Task Force is following up on their report "No More Secrets" which is about how the County handles child sex abuse cases. He noted that in the last several meetings the Task Force met with providers of services for the alleged perpetrators. The providers, have all generally agreed that there doesn’t seem to be much supervision in terms of making sure that the perpetrators are getting the counseling they are supposed to get. There is a sense that in this respect the system is not working. Therefore, Leg. Noto stated that they want to inquire with the County’s Attorneys office about this issue as well as the Coordination issue. Leg. Noto explained why there was a push for a Coordinator for Child sex abuse (mainly because the system was not victim friendly) and the role of Coordinator. Ms. Morales stated that she was not aware of the existence of the Coordinator. The Task Force noted that this is of concern to them. Leg. Noto discussed coordination and inquired at what point does either the County Attorney’s office or the D.A.’s office makes a decision. Ms. Morales noted they are not aware of what cases the D.A.’s office picks up. She explained that historically, the Family Court will not enter into a proceeding if the D.A. is involved. The reasoning is that if the D.A. gets a conviction they will accomplish the goal intended. Ms. Morales explained case referrals. She explained that cases are only referred to them via DSS and she also noted that the child’s age is a factor; if the child is 15 or above then they do not have jurisdiction.

Leg. Bronz and Leg. Noto concluded that tracking and coordination are still not happening. The Task Force on Families agreed to hold

a meeting with all the pertinent parties (DSS, The Coordinator, Cty Atty’s office, D.A.’s office and providers) and have roundtable discussions.

Leg. Noto moved to adjourn, seconded by Leg. Bronz. All in favor [2-0]. The meeting ended at 1:10 PM.