When Kids Witness the Unimaginable

In this episode of One in Ten, Teresa Huizar speaks with Katie Connell, a forensic interviewing expert and retired FBI unit chief, about the impact of mass violence on children. They discuss the prevalence of mass violence incidents, the importance of trauma-informed care for child witnesses, and the evolving roles of Children's Advocacy Centers (CACs) in these tragic events. The conversation explores challenges and strategies in interviewing child witnesses, the need for strong community partnerships, and long-term impacts on affected communities. Insights are also shared on supporting the resilience of first responders and the critical role of CACs in providing ongoing support to traumatized children. 

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Episode 

00:26 Understanding Mass Violence 

01:07 Impact on Children and Trauma-Informed Care 

01:47 Interview with Katie Connell 

02:18 Defining Mass Violence Incidents 

03:50 Role of CACs in Mass Violence 

06:10 Case Study: Columbine and Its Long-Term Effects 

09:48 Challenges and Considerations for Forensic Interviewers 

12:09 Federal and Local Law Enforcement Collaboration 

21:56 Community Partnerships and Long-Term Support 

27:00 Supporting Responders and Secondary Trauma 

35:17 Final Thoughts and Reflections 

Links:

FBI-NCA MOU (memorandum of understanding) began in 2015 and was updated in 2022; it ensures our law enforcement partners have access to CAC services needed to investigate and prosecute federal child abuse cases

Support the show

Did you like this episode? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts.