Special Victims Unit (SVU)

Print Feedback

Font Size: + -

The Tempe Police Department Special Victims Unit (SVU) investigates crimes involving children and adults who have been the victim of:

Sexual Assault
Sexual Abuse
Public Sexual Indecency
Sexual Conduct with a Minor
Molestation
Neglect
Incident Exposure
Child/Adult Physical or Sexual Abuse
Other sexually motived offenses

SVU Detectives are trained in handling sensitive, unique, and dynamic investigations. The Detectives receive training in medical, physical, and psychological aspects associated with sexually motivated offenses. SVU Detectives will utilize every available tool to seek justice for victims and to hold those who violate the law accountable for their actions.

If you have been a victim of a sexually motivated crime,
please call 911!

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not want to call the police and just want to talk to someone?

Answer: You do not have to tell police what happened. The resources listed below can get you in touch with many different victim support agencies. However, keep in mind that potential evidence linked to the crime may be lost, washed away, or cleaned. This evidence could aid in prosecution if you reconsider speaking with police at a later time.

Do I have to tell the police what happened before I get a sexual assault exam?

No, you do not need to file a report or provide any information to police to obtain a Forensic Nurse Exam. The 1994 Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is Federal legislation that outlines certain victim’s rights and services available to victims.

Do I have the choice to stop a police investigation if I want?

A police investigation is centered around the well-being of the victim. The Tempe Police Department will compel a victim to do anything that the victim does not want to do. However, Arizona law requires specific police action in cases of domestic violence due to the nature of the suspect-victim relationship.