WYOMING COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office has announced the formation of the Crimes Against Children Task Force, a joint investigative effort with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office focused exclusively on cases involving child victimization and exploitation.
According to a media release, the task force was developed over several months through collaboration between Wyoming County Sheriff Brad Ellison, Sgt. Tyler Sizemore, McDowell County Sheriff James “Boomer” Muncy and Deputy Brent Cline.
The task force will be operated by Sizemore and Cline. Investigators assigned to the unit will work across county lines and jurisdictions to provide a coordinated response to cases involving crimes against children.
Officials said the task force will work closely with Stop The Hurt Child Advocacy Center, the West Virginia Department of Human Services and other community resources to support investigations and assist child victims and their families.
According to the release, the mission of the Crimes Against Children Task Force is to strengthen investigative efforts, improve interagency cooperation, enhance digital forensic and investigative capabilities, and ensure child victims and their families receive a professional, thorough and trauma-informed response.
The task force also plans to pursue grant funding and other financial resources to expand investigative capabilities, training opportunities, technology and victim-centered services throughout the region.
Sheriff Ellison stated, “Protecting children will always remain one of the highest priorities of this office. This task force represents a major step forward in ensuring these investigations receive the attention, coordination, and resources they deserve.”
Additional information regarding task force operations, community outreach efforts and future initiatives is expected to be released at a later date.
