Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller announced last week the creation of a dedicated Special Victims Unit (SVU), a new unit designed to enhance the prosecution of crimes against society’s most vulnerable individuals, including victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, and human trafficking.
Led by experienced prosecutor Shawn Jensvold, this team will work closely with investigators, legal professionals and victim advocates. The Special Victims Unit will ensure trauma-informed and a victim-centered approach to seeking justice. The unit will work closely with law enforcement, social service agencies, medical professionals, and community partners to provide comprehensive support to victims while aggressively prosecuting offenders.
“My office is taking a tough-on-crime approach to those who participate in child sex trafficking,” said Brad Miller, Pinal County Attorney. “The Special Victims Unit will hold perpetrators accountable but will also ensure that victims receive the compassion, respect, and support they deserve throughout the legal process.”
The new unit will focus on:
- Enhanced Prosecution – Specialized attorneys trained in handling sensitive cases will oversee investigations and prosecutions to ensure the highest level of expertise.
- Victim Advocacy – Dedicated victim advocates will provide survivors with resources, guidance, and support from the moment they report a crime through the conclusion of the legal process.
- Interagency Collaboration – Working with law enforcement, the SVU will coordinate a multi-disciplinary approach to protect victims and strengthen cases against those who seek to harm the innocent.