Fishers PD honors detective investigating highest number of child sex crime cases in Hamilton County

FISHERS, Ind. — When it comes to investigating crimes against children, one Fishers detective is taking on more cases than anyone else in Hamilton County.

“Investigating these cases is challenging,” detective Tracy Jones said. “Listening to their worst day does weigh really heavy on your heart.”

Jones is trusted with some of Fishers’ most sensitive and heartbreaking cases.

“I’ve seen how these cases impact the children,” Jones said. “I just really want to make sure we’re going above and beyond, and that way, each family has what they need to be able to effectively deal with that process.”

She’s being recognized for investigating 63 child sex crimes over 18 months — the most among Hamilton County law enforcement agencies. It’s also 65% of all child cases that came to the Cherish Center during that time.

“I would say that Tracy is one of those people that just does not let things fall through the cracks,” said Cherish Center Executive Director Wendy Gamble. “And that’s what our team is about.”

Gamble explained the Cherish Center is where the work of police, DCS and prosecutors converges to provide forensic services in a kid-friendly environment with the goal of preventing further trauma. It’s one of several nationally accredited child advocacy centers across Indiana, and part of a growing effort to open one in every county.

“We’re working towards that in the state to make sure that every single person has the ability to have a CAC, a safe place, neutral place to go,” Gamble said.

Last year, Cherish awarded Detective Jones with its “IMPACT” award based on county-wide nominations.

“There’s so many people out there doing amazing things,” Gamble said. “It’s really hard in order to keep our community safe.”

Detective Jones is known for following up on cases, whether they result in prosecution or not, to help families and schools move forward. She encourages parents to have an open dialogue with their kids and keep an eye on their social media. She added that, if something appears to be amiss with a child, their family members should take their concerns seriously.

“I think a lot of times our kids are scared to come to us with questions, but being proactive at it and having that conversation with them will help if something does happen,” Jones said. “That way, you can reach out to law enforcement and we can start the process together.”