Case Study: CUSI (Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations)

In 1991, Chittenden County town managers and police chiefs, in conjunction with the County State Attorney’s Office, began to evaluate the viability of combining resources in several key areas. One such area was the investigation of sexual crimes, including suspected child sexual and physical abuse. Given the complexities often associated with these crimes, there was a demonstrated need for experienced personnel able to effectively manage these types of crimes.

A series of meetings were held to seek input into such a project, and a policy board, consisting of officials from local police and non-profit agencies and the Department of Social Services was created. In July of 1992, CUSI (Chittenden Unit for Special Investigations) was formed.

CUSI is now a multi-agency task force that provides criminal investigation services in response to reports of sexual assault and other serious child abuse and neglect. Cooperating with municipalities, police agencies, prosecutors, and victim advocacy groups, CUSI also works to meet the emotional needs for adult and child survivors of abuse. Free of the traditional police atmosphere, including uniforms, CUSI strives to provide a comfortable environment to decrease the anxiety of disclosing traumatic information.

CUSI provides a victim’s advocate as part of its staff, in conjunction with the Burlington-based Women’s Rape Crisis Center. This advocate works to assist victims and their families with arranging free counseling services, keeps them up to date on their case status, and provides needed support in times of despair.

In addition to investigations, CUSI engages in development and training activities for other area professionals who encounter suspected victims of abuse, as well as informal presentations and training for organizations and citizens in the community. The Unit’s structure is also currently being used as a prototype for other similar units in Vermont and the region. To date, four multi-disciplinary sexual assault investigation units have evolved based on the CUSI model.

Cross Sectoral Benefits

Economy: Less dysfunctional people in the workplace.

Governance: Multi-partner collaborative structure, involving a variety of professionals and stakeholders.

Social: Over 2000 investigations have taken place since the program’s inception, resulting in a high number of criminal confessions.