Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Sociology

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Special Victims Units (SVUs) offer survivors critical resources, including trauma-informed practices, survivor advocacy referrals, and consistent communication. With proper functionality, they have the potential to provide a holistic support system, bridging gaps in trust and ensuring survivors feel valued and believed throughout the investigative process. This dissertation investigates the effectiveness of SVUs in law enforcement’s response to sexual assault cases, emphasizing trauma-informed practices and systemic challenges. By examining both survivor and detective perspectives using qualitative data, it reveals the significant impact of institutional limitations, such as staffing shortages, high caseloads, and inadequate resources, on the quality of care provided to survivors and the effectiveness of SVU investigations. Additionally, through a jurisdiction-level analysis of reporting and clearance rates across Louisiana, this research finds that while the presence of SVUs is linked to higher reported cases, this association likely reflects SVU placement in areas with high demand rather than an inherent increase in survivor engagement. Furthermore, SVUs do not show a significant association with case clearance rates, highlighting the constraints imposed by broader systemic issues. These findings challenge the assumption that SVUs can meaningfully improve sexual assault case outcomes. Instead, the findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in resource allocation, administrative support, specialized training, and survivor-centered practices to ensure SVUs can deliver the empathy and thorough investigations essential for justice. This study offers valuable insights into the complexities of trauma-informed policing, advocating for a more holistic framework that enhances both survivor care and investigative effectiveness in sexual violence cases.

Date

1-9-2025

Committee Chair

O'Connell, Heather

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Available for download on Saturday, January 09, 2027

Included in

Criminology Commons

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