JOLIET – The Will County Children’s Advocacy Center yesterday honored Joe Kocek, a retired Tinley Park Police Commander who is stepping down from the Board after more than two decades of service.
“With his commitment to both making a difference in the lives of abused children and finding a better way for law enforcement to investigate child abuse cases, Joe has made significant contributions to the CAC as we have continued to expand the services we provide and improve investigations into child abuse cases,” Glasgow said.
State’s Attorney James Glasgow and fellow board members presented Kocek with a plaque honoring his years of dedication and service to the CAC.
“Over the past 20 years, I have had the opportunity to see the CAC continually find new and innovative ways to serve the children and families who need our help – ranging from offering counseling, to providing therapy dogs to provide needed comfort,” Kocek stated. “It has truly been rewarding to be a part of this organization and to help in fulfilling the vision conceived by State’s Attorney Glasgow.”
State’s Attorney Glasgow, who chairs the Board of Directors, established the Will County CAC in 1995 as a not-for-profit agency to improve investigations into cases involving child abuse. When a child has experienced physical abuse, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, child pornography, neglect, or significant exposure to violence, the child is brought to the CAC where a trained and compassionate child forensic interviewer obtains an accurate statement in a neutral, non-suggestive, and child-friendly environment.
Forensic interviews recorded at the CAC have been used in the successful prosecution of hundreds of predators. Since its inception, more than 8,900 children in Will County have received interview, advocacy, and trauma-focused mental health services at the CAC. More than 690 children were served in just the past year.
“Joe brought a steadfast commitment and dedication to the CAC,” Glasgow said. “We wish him well. Joe will be sorely missed by all of us.”