Detective Kim Potts was presented a Certificate of Excellence by CARE House of Oakland County, Jan. 29.
“It was pretty exciting, an honor,” said Potts, sheriff’s deputy stationed in Independence Township.
“I think it’s great ? she deserves it,” said Lt. Dirk Feneley, commander of Independence Township substation. “She works hard for kids, and has great rapport with CARE House.”
Potts was recognized for her work with children.
“CARE House is a place we can take children when we’re investigating abuse and neglect cases,” Potts said. “The substation can be scary to kids. CARE House is kid friendly.”
A trained forensic interviewer talks to the child while Potts, social worker, crisis counselor, Child Protective Services representative, and sometimes prosecutor observe.
“I watch the interview, take notes and gather evidence, and meet parents or guardian and let them know what’s going on,” Potts said. “When I was with Highland Township, I was the sole person working with CARE Huose for about five years. When I took the position here last year, I started to do it again.”
Located near St. Joe’s in Pontiac, the Child Abuse and Neglect Council of Oakland County’s CARE House also offers advocacy, education, prevention, and treatment services for children and families in abuse and neglect cases. All services are free to the families.
As Oakland County Sheriff’s liaison officer to Clarkston Community Schools, Potts investigates child abuse and neglect cases.
“Anything, verbal abuse, repeated abuse, anything to do with child abuse and neglect,” she said. “I take them from beginning to end.”
The deputy is also working with the Detroit Pistons on a new event, Detective Potts Night with the Detroit Pistons, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 15, at the Palace of Auburn Hills.
Children with disabilities, as well as those who work with them, will get seats on the floor as the Pistons take on the Indiana Pacers, take a post-game shot on the court, and enjoy other activities.
“I feel those children do not get enough recognition ? it will be a night for them,” she said. “We’ve been working on this since September.”
Sponsors so far include Clarkston Area Youth Assistance and Clarkston Coalition.
“We need 100 tickets sold,” Potts said. “If it goes well, we’ll expand it to the junior high, high school, and Renaissance High School.”
Special prices for the game are $45, lower level, $45; $20, upperlevel, $20; and $5, hot dog and soda. For more information, call James Vish at 248-377-0196.