Captain Kathi M. Rhodes
Director

• Child Abuse/Sexual Assault Section
   
• Pedophile Section
  - Sex Offender Registry Unit
  - Internet Crimes Against Children Computer Unit
   
• Family Outreach Section
  - Missing Person/Runaway Unit
  - Domestic Violence/Elder Abuse Unit
  - Case Screening Unit

The Family Crimes Division is highly respected for its investigative expertise.  The assigned detectives receive specialized training in various investigative methods critical to the successful investigation of these unique crimes.  The Division is committed to protecting the safety of all family members against crimes committed by family members or others.

The Child Abuse/Sexual Assault Section is responsible for investigating rape, sexual offenses, and physical and sexual abuse committed against children under the age of 18.

The Pedophile Section is responsible for investigating these same types of crimes committed against children, where a pedophile is involved.  Included in the Pedophile Section is the Sex Offender Registry Unit, which is responsible for notifying specific communities when a convicted sex offender moves there; registering convicted sex offenders twice a year; and monitoring convicted sexual offenders who live, work, or attend school in Montgomery County.  Information concerning convicted sexual predators can be accessed by clicking here (Maryland Sex Offender Registry).  Also included in the Pedophile Section is the Internet Crimes Against Children Computer Unit which investigates individuals and predators who utilize the computer as a means to meet children online for the purpose of sexually exploiting the child, and distributing child pornography.  WHAT TO DO...if your child has received inappropriate or disturbing computer communication, click here for an informational brochure.

The Family Outreach Section is comprised of three units.  The Missing Person/Runaway Unit investigates all cases of runaway, missing, or abducted children.  You can access the "Missing Persons in Maryland" link (offsite) by clicking here.  The Domestic Violence/Elder Abuse Unit investigates allegations of first degree assault against a domestic partner and can assist the victim in obtaining a temporary ex parte order, protective order, or witness subpoena.  The Unit also investigates domestic-related stalking complaints.  Elder abuse includes physical abuse in a group/nursing home type of institution or by an established caregiver, as well as neglect, in terms of depriving the victim of basic needs for survival such as medicine, food, and medical are.  Lastly, the Case Screening Unit reviews approximately 4,000 cases of juvenile arrests annually and recommends specific diversionary programs appropriate for the individual involved children.