Official Web Site of the City of Phoenix

The Family Investigations Bureau was established January 1, 1999, after the Phoenix Mayor and City Council approved the establishment of the Family Advocacy Center (FAC) at 2120 North Central Avenue. The center houses members of the Family Investigations Bureau as well as staff from the City Manager's Office, County Attorney and City Prosecutor's Offices, and numerous community service agencies. Bureau personnel investigate sex crimes, domestic violence, crimes against children, missing persons, Crimes Against Vulnerable Adults, and ensure compliance with the sex offender notification law. The "FAC" Victim Services Program provides assistance to victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence and to family members of homicide victims through the invaluable assistance of caseworkers and volunteers.

The bureau has an established partnership with ChildHelp USA, a national organization that promotes the well-being of children through numerous services. The ChildHelp facility is located just blocks from the Family Advocacy Center.

This unique arrangement of personnel results in a victim-oriented, collaborative approach in the investigation of and intervention in domestic violence, sexual abuse, and crimes against children. Additional resources available include assistance with Orders of Protection, crisis counseling, information and referral services, legal advocacy referrals, safety planning, shelter access and emergency housing assistance, and support groups.

Throuhgout 2007, there were on average 28 medical exams for evidentiary purposes that were performed at FAC each month. In each of these cases, victims had the benefit of personalized, caring treatment in a private, secure environment.