Iron County Children's Justice Center

06/01/2026

Come join us for a free event! Have some fun and learn more about the Children's Justice Center!

04/30/2026

On March 23, 2026 the Iron County Commission declared that April 29 will now be Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Day each year.

Child abuse reports across the nation are alarmingly high. Approximately 4.4 million referrals of child maltreatment are made in the U.S annually.

Utah is not immune to the child abuse epidemic. In 2024 there were over 48,000 reports made to DCFS and over 22,000 of those led to a formal investigation.

In Iron county there are approximately 17,000 children under the age of 19. During 2025 the Iron County CJC supported local agencies by conducting 298 forensic interviews. That number does not include all of the abuse and neglect cases that CPS investigated. However, it provides a picture that almost 2 in every 100 children in Iron County will come to the CJC as a part of a child abuse investigation annually.

Iron County's 298 interviews represented 4.8% of the interviews done at a CJC in the state of Utah, in a county that only represents 1.97% of Utah's population.

This day is to recognize and bring attention to the fact that each of these numbers in these statistics is a child in our community. Each of them are neighbors, family members, students, teammates and/or family friends. They are not just data points, these are kids who attend school with our children and grandchildren, the kids our kids play with at the park or in sports.

Until ALL of our kids are safe. NONE of our kids are safe

04/30/2026

Today agencies from across Utah gathered at the Children’s Justice Center in Cedar City to sign a proclamation declaring April 29 as Prevent Child Abuse Day and recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Iron County.

Thank you to all who participated and showed their support for this important initiative. Together, we reaffirm our shared commitment to preventing child abuse and strengthening the safety and well-being of children in our community. And thank you to all who work tirelessly day in and day out helping those who might not otherwise be heard.

04/29/2026

It is NEVER the survivors fault.

At the CJC we see firsthand how harmful myths can silence victims and shift blame where it doesn't belong.

Denim day is about pushing back and standing with survivors, supporting safe disclosure and reminding our community that the responsibility ALWAYS rests with the person who caused harm.

Speak up. Believe. Support Survivors.

04/01/2026

April is a reminder that protecting kids is something we all play a part in.

The more we understand, the more we notice.

The more we notice, the more we can help.

When we take time to learn, listen and look out for each other we create a community of safer kids.

02/12/2026

Congratulations to Chief Deputy Iron County Attorney Shane Klenk for being named Iron County Children's Justice Center's 2025 Guardian of Hope. The Guardian of Hope award is given to a multi-disciplinary team member who has made a significant impact in the lives of children. It recognizes dedication to protecting, supporting, and empowering children here in Iron County who have been impacted by abuse and neglect. This award symbolizes Shane's commitment to creating a safer, more hopeful future for children and acknowledges his efforts in providing support, ensuring justice, and giving children a voice. Our office is grateful for Shane and the rest of our MDT members in Law Enforcement, Child Protection and Services, and at the CJC. Congrats, Shane!

02/12/2026

We’re honored to recognize our 2025 Guardian of Hope Award recipient! Shane Klenk, an Iron County prosecutor whose dedication to children and families reaches far beyond the courtroom.

Shane shows up for those we serve in preparation, collaboration, and the responsibility of carrying a child’s story forward with accuracy and care. His commitment to strong MDT partnership helps ensure young victims are heard, respected, and represented.

Thank you for the work you do, the trust you build, and the standards you hold for justice on behalf of our community’s children.

Congratulations on being named this year’s Guardian of Hope!

01/17/2026

Detective McCoy doesn’t just respond to calls and work cases... he shows up for people. His empathy, patience, and respect make a real difference in moments that matter most. We’re grateful to work alongside him and the many dedicated law enforcement officers, CPS workers, prosecutors, and advocates who bring the same heart to this work. 🤍

By: Sachet A. Sullivan | The Zion Times Trust in law enforcement is often shaped in moments of crisis. In Cedar City, several residents say Patrick McCoy is an officer who consistently approaches those moments with patience and care. Those residents describe encounters that took place in hospital ro...

11/18/2025

It’s showtime, Cedar City!

Join us TONIGHT for Dancing with the Community Stars: Star Spangled! All proceeds go to the Iron County Children’s Justice Center, helping kids and families right here in our community. 💙

11/17/2025

Tomorrow is the BIG day! Get your tickets now & join us for a night filled with STARS!

It’s almost time! Tomorrow night our local stars take the stage for Dancing with the Community Stars: Star Spangled!

Come cheer them on and support the Iron County Children’s Justice Center, helping children and families right here in our community. 💛