PIERRE, S.D. - The REACH team, a multi-disciplinary team consisting of a private, public partnership between Sanford Child’s Voice, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Watertown Police Department, South Dakota Department of Social Services – Child Protection Services, Human Service Agency, Beacon Center and the Codington County State’s Attorney’s Office, celebrated their one-year anniversary of serving families in Northeast South Dakota on August 21, 2018.  The REACH team was conceived through Jolene’s Law Task Force and subsequently the USD Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment.

"The REACH Center is providing a much needed voice to children who are victims of violent crime in Northeast South Dakota," said Jackley. "The expertise this team brings allows us to assist and better protect our children, families and communities."

The Center opened its doors on August 21, 2017 and has seen 147 patients. Below are the Center’s year-end stats.

Females:  98 patients
Males:  49 patients
Caucasian:   91 patients
Native American: 54 patients
African American: 2 patients
Sexual Abuse:  106 patients
Drug Endangered:   37 patients
Physical Abuse:     40 patients
Neglect:      25 patients
Witness to Violence: 24 patients
Ages:
0 - 3:   16 patients
3 - 6:   24 patients
6 - 9:   35 patients
9 - 12:   32 patients
12 -15:  21 patients
15 -18:  18 patients
Adult:  1 patient

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