PRESS RELEASE UPDATE

Thursday, September 11, 2025

Campbell County Sheriff's Office Opens Trauma-Informed Interview Space with Support Grant from Project Beloved

RUSTBURG, VA - The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is proud to announce the opening of a newly designed interview space made possible through a grant from Project Beloved, a nonprofit dedicated to changing the conversation about sexual assault.

The grant was awarded to CCSO in 2024, and the project was completed on July 26, 2025. The new room offers a warm, welcoming, and trauma-informed environment where adult survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence can feel safe to share their stories.

Unlike a traditional interview room, which can often feel clinical, cold, or even interrogative, this new space is intentionally designed to be comforting and supportive. Research shows that environment plays a critical role in how survivors experience law enforcement interactions. By replacing stark walls and harsh lighting with softer, more inviting furnishings, CCSO is working to reduce re-traumatization and create conditions where survivors feel heard, respected, and empowered to participate in the justice process.

“This space represents a shift in how we approach investigations of sexual violence and other interpersonal crimes,” said Sheriff Whit Clark. “We want survivors to know they are safe here. Our role is to listen well and ensure they are supported if they choose to take part in an investigation.”

The room is designed specifically for adult survivors. CCSO continues to rely on its strong partnership with the local Child Advocacy Center, where highly trained professionals conduct child interviews in safe, child-centered environments.

A unique aspect of the project is the involvement of local survivors who contributed items to the room as part of their own healing journey. These personal touches carry deep meaning — both as a gift to others and as a reminder that survivors are not alone.

Project Beloved provides soft interview room resources to law enforcement agencies across the country, helping officers adopt trauma-informed, research-backed approaches to investigations. By creating safe, neutral spaces and emphasizing compassionate communication, agencies like CCSO are building stronger trust with survivors and communities alike.

Completed Interview Room

Media Inquiries, please contact Captain Brian J. Murray;

(434) 332-9580; BJMurray@CampbellCountyVA.Gov.

About the Campbell County Sheriff's Office

The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. Through community engagement initiatives and partnerships, the Sheriff’s Office works diligently to reduce crime and foster a strong sense of security across the county.