Special unit to investigate child abuse

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Kilmartin launched a new unit Monday dedicated to combating crimes against children.

The new child abuse unit represents a partnership between prosecutors, police, pediatricians, and child welfare advocates.  It will be made up of two experienced prosecutors and a victim services liaison, who will work with victims.

Kilmartin says the unit will help give a voice to young crime victims and get them the help they need more quickly.

"The victims can't speak for themselves," explained Kilmartin during a news conference on Monday.

"They need to be responded to when they are crying out for help," said Amy Goldberg, who treats victims of childhood abuse.

She says speed and support are two crucial elements in treating abuse victims.

Attorney General Kilmartin says the new child abuse unit will improve both.

"The abuse of a child, be it sexual or psychological or in any form, frankly is one of the toughest crimes not only to detect but to prosecute."