Both units fall under the Special Victims Section, Central Investigations Division of the Tucson Police Department.
To report child abuse or child sexual assault, call 911.
If you believe the child is safe and the incident happened several days, weeks, or months ago, call the Tucson Police Department non-emergency number at 520-791-4444, the Pima County Sheriff's Department non-emergency number at 520-351-4900, and/or the Arizona Department of Child Safety at 877-238-4501.
Child abuse is a serious crime. If you know or suspect that a child is being abused, it's important to make a report, both to help the victim and to protect other children.
Have unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, black eyes, or faded bruises or marks after an absence from school
Seem frightened of their parents and protest or cry when it’s time to go home
Report injuries from their parents or adult caregivers
Abuse pets or other animals
Offer explanations of injuries that don’t make sense
Be dressed inadequately for the weather
Appear frequently tired with little energy
Report caring for younger siblings on a regular basis
Have poor hygiene, smell of urine or feces, or have dirty or decaying teeth
Be far too thin or have a bloated stomach (may indicate malnutrition)
Have untreated medical or dental problems, such as infected sores
Say no one at home offers care
You should know that victims of sexual assault did nothing to cause the assault and are never to blame. The offender – most often someone the child knows and trusts – is responsible, not the victim or non-offending family member.
Personality changes or discomfort around some trusted person
Unusual interest in own or other's genitals
Behavior problems
Mood swings
Excessive crying
Changes in toilet behavior, eating or sleeping habits,
Advanced knowledge of sex acts
Assure your child that you believe what she or he told you, and that you are glad they are able to talk about it.
Be careful NEVER to give the impression that you are blaming your child for what happened.
It is crucial that you emphasize that what you child did, or felt, was not his or her fault. Provide an extra sense of physical security by staying close to your child immediately after she or he discloses.
Allow your child to express both positive and negative feelings.
Avoid “why” questions, as they give the impression of blame.
Try to keep things as normal as possible.
Avoid asking your children direct leading questions. If they want to share, let them share, but don't interrogate them. Make them feel loved and safe.
The Tucson Police Department Special Victims Section works closely with our partners at the Children's Advocacy Center of Southern Arizona to conduct forensic interviews. Please visit their website for information on the process and what to expect if your child is going to be interviewed. They can also provide resources and refer you to specialized therapists in Southern Arizona. Call 520-724-2173 or visit their website, www.cacsoaz.org.
Child Physical Abuse Unit Child Sexual Assault Unit Tucson Police Department270 S Stone AveTucson, AZ 85701 TPDChildCrimes@tucsonaz.gov TPD Child Physical Abuse: 520-837-7598 (message only) TPD Child Sexual Assault: 520-837-7612 (message only)