Northwest Unit For Special Investigations

Serving Franklin and Grand Isle Counties

The Northwest Unit for Special Investigations (NUSI) is a multi disciplinary task force created to conduct criminal investigations and provide victim services in response to reports of sexual assaults, child sexual abuse, and other child related offenses. Those involved with the Unit offer special expertise and training in order to better protect victims and to facilitate successful prosecutions.

NUSI promotes cooperative efforts between municipalities, police agencies, prosecutor's offices, Social and Rehabilitation Services, victim advocacy groups, and health care providers.

Objectives

Improve the quality and timeliness of sexual assault investigations.

Reduce the number of non-reported sexual assaults.

Increase the number of successful prosecutions.

Improve the cooperation and coordination between agencies involved in the cases.

Reduce further trauma to the victim and victim's family. Offer victim services to ensure support for victim and family.

Educate other professionals working in this field through training offered by NUSI investigators and victim advocate.

Components of the Unit

Investigator: Law enforcement officers assigned to NUSI are specially trained professionals who focus on investigating sexual crimes. The investigators employ the newest interview techniques, follow up leads, collect physical evidence and develop a cohesive court case.

Victim Advocate: The NUSI Victim Advocate is available to offer support and information to victims from the time of initial report throughout investigation and prosecution. The Victim Advocate will notify the victim of all court hearings, make appropriate referrals to other agencies, and assist the victim in applying for victim compensation services.

Prosecutor: The NUSI team includes a designated attorney from each county to review and prosecute cases investigated by the unit. These prosecutors work to develop the specialized skills necessary for successful prosecutions.

• NUSI welcome page.
  
  
• NUSI Objectives & Components of the Unit.
  
  
• Facts about Child Abuse and Neglect, and what you can do to help Prevent it.
  
  
• Facts about Child Sexual Abuse in Vermont.
  
  
• Protecting Children
  
  
• Facts about Domestic Violence, Rape and 'Date Rape'
  
  
• Rape Prevention Information
  
  
• Help for Victims of Rape Here
  
  
• Map to Help in OTHER parts of Vermont
  
  
• Who to contact, where to find help
  
  
• Important Phone Numbers
  
  
• Internet Safety Information
  
  
• KID'S KORNER - a safe website for children.
  
  
• Other helpful sites
  
  
• Our Web Rings to Related Web Sites
  
  
  
• Saint Albans Police Department Web Site