Special Victim Unit (SVU)
Overview
The St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit (SVU) is dedicated to investigating some of the most sensitive and serious crimes affecting our community. This specialized unit focuses on cases involving sexual assaults, child abuse, domestic violence, and crimes against vulnerable adults.
Detectives assigned to the SVU are specially trained professionals who conduct these complex investigations with the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and discretion. Their work is centered on ensuring victims are treated with dignity and respect throughout the investigative process.
Victim-Centered Approach
Every investigation led by the SVU follows a victim-centered approach that prioritizes safety, support, and justice. Detectives work closely with victims to understand their experiences, gather evidence sensitively, and pursue accountability for offenders. The unit ensures that victims are connected to advocacy resources, counseling, and other essential services designed to help them recover and rebuild.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The SVU collaborates with local, state, and federal partners, as well as with victim advocacy organizations, to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive response to each case. This collaborative effort enhances investigative effectiveness and ensures that victims receive the full range of support and legal protections available to them.
Commitment to Community Safety
The work of the Special Victims Unit is critical to protecting the most vulnerable members of St. Mary’s County. Through thorough investigations, proactive community education, and strong partnerships with service providers, the SVU plays a vital role in:
- Reducing Victimization
- Holding offenders accountable
- Strengthening community trust and safety
By combining compassion with accountability, the Special Victim Unit reinforces the Sheriff's Office commitment to ensuring a safer, more just community for all.