In this episode of “One in Ten,” host Teresa Huizar speaks with Dr. Lisa Nichols, an assistant professor at the University of Northern Colorado, to discuss the challenges faced by child abuse detectives. The episode delves into the complexities and emotional toll of child sexual abuse investigations, highlighting findings from Dr. Nichols' study. Key themes include understaffing, high turnover, funding issues, the emotional impact on detectives, and communication challenges with Child Protective Services (CPS). Dr. Nichols emphasizes the need for better support and resources, including culturally competent mental health services, to improve the wellbeing and effectiveness of these law enforcement professionals.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction: Detectives in Crisis

02:10 Interview with Dr. Lisa Nichols

04:00 Study Design and Methodology

06:09 Key Findings: Funding and Emotional Toll

15:13 Challenges of High Turnover

31:42 Communication Issues with CPS

39:08 Implications for Policy and Practice

42:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Resources:

“It’s Like We Never See the Light at the End of the
Tunnel”: Law Enforcement Perceptions on Stakeholder
Collaboration and Resources at CACs in a Southern
State; Journal of Child Sexual Abuse; February 2025

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