4th Annual
Southern New Mexico Conference
on Child Abuse and Neglect
April 13-16, 2026
Inn of the Mountain Gods
287 Carrizo Canyon Rd., Mescalero, NM 88340
Bringing Together Professionals Dedicated to Protecting Children
Kid’s Inc. Child Advocacy Center (CAC) is excited and proud to host the 4th Annual Southern New Mexico Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect at the Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, NM, from April 13–16, 2026.
This conference provides practical and interactive instruction to those fighting crimes against children and helping them heal.
Through the generous support of our sponsors, Kid’s Inc. Child Advocacy Center is once again able to host this conference free of charge for all attendees. The event brings together professionals employed by government or nonprofit agencies in the fields of prosecution, law enforcement, child protective services, social work, children’s advocacy, mental health, medicine, and many more who work directly with child victims of crime.
The conference not only provides core and advanced training and skill development but also offers the opportunity to learn from and network with professionals from various disciplines involved in the child welfare community.
Kid’s Inc. CAC truly believes in the Child Advocacy Center model and the effectiveness of a well-trained and competent Multidisciplinary Team. We are proud to offer this conference as part of our ongoing effort to strengthen the capacity of those serving New Mexico’s children and families.
Registration for the 4th Annual Southern New Mexico Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect is now OPEN!
The conference sessions will be held in person only at the Inn of the Mountain Gods, 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero, NM. Attendees can expect a strong lineup of presenters during this four-day event, with advanced training hours available through the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy. Certificates of Attendance will be provided upon completion of the conference and verification of attendance.
Approval of advanced credit hours for NM Certified Law Enforcement is pending with the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy and the total number of approved credits will be announced shortly.
Conference Agenda & Presentations
The 4th Annual Southern New Mexico Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect will feature an exceptional lineup of presentations designed to educate, inspire, and strengthen the professionals working to protect children and support families.
A detailed, time-specific agenda will be distributed prior to the start of the conference. Presenter information and bios will also be provided below.
Monday, April 13, 2026
(8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Check-In; Opening Remarks; Conference 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. approximate)
“Recantation…Wouldn’t You?”
Michelle Aldana, Statewide Director of Forensic Services, New Mexico Children’s Alliance, New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs, Inc., Albuquerque, NM“It Takes a Team to Protect a Child (Parts 1 & 2)”
Michael (Mike) V. Johnson, BSCJ; Detective, Retired – Child and Youth Safety Consultant, Detective Mike, LLC, Dallas, Texas
Tuesday, April 14, 2026
(8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. approximate)
“Combatting Defense Strategies in Child Abuse Cases”
Michael (Mike) V. Johnson, BSCJ; Detective, Retired – Child and Youth Safety Consultant, Detective Mike, LLC, Dallas, Texas“Domestic Violence and the Intersection with Child Abuse”
Detective Capt. Eric K. Threlkeld, Safe Horizon Strategies LLC, Eddy County Sheriff’s Office, Carlsbad, New Mexico*** NETWORKING LUNCHEON, Free of Charge (prior registration required), graciously sponsored by the SACRAMENTO MOUNTAINS FOUNDATION, Alamogordo, New Mexico
“Beyond the Ink: Tattoo Iconography (Parts 1 & 2)”
Jessica Lamb, Founder and Executive Director, Atlanta Redemption Ink, Atlanta, Georgia
Wednesday, April 15, 2026
(8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. approximate)
“Understanding Sex Offenders (Part 1 & 2)”
Jim Tanner, Ph.D., President, KB Solutions Inc., Community Corrections Professional, Boulder, Colorado“Advancing Technology, Lagging Law”
Jim Tanner, Ph.D.“Living with the Memories”
Jim Tanner, Ph.D.
Thursday, April 16, 2026
(8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
“Exposures to Illicit/Controlled Substances in Children”
Dr. Leslie Strickler, DO, FAAP, Professor of Pediatrics & Child Abuse Pediatrician, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Medical Director of the Child Abuse Response Team (CART), Executive Director/Interim Medical Director of the Para Los Niños Program, Albuquerque, New Mexico“Child Abuse Response Team (CART) and Child Sexual Assault Exams”
Dr. Leslie Strickler, DO, FAAPClosing
Scot D. Key, J.D., 12th Judicial District Attorney, Retired
Meals and Refreshments
There are several dining options available on the property and you will be responsible for your own lunch on Monday and Wednesday. Coffee, water, tea, and light snacks will be provided throughout the day.
**Through the gracious sponsorship of the Sacramento Mountains Foundation, a networking luncheon will be provided, free of charge, on Tuesday for those attendees that pre-registered. Pre-registration is available through the registration for the conference itself. Please reach out with any questions regarding this luncheon.
Make plans NOW to attend!!
Thirteen (13) sessions in four (4) days, the 4th Annual Southern New Mexico Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect promises to provide something for everyone with presenters who are recognized for their passion and expertise.
The combination of high-quality training and networking opportunities will challenge and inspire everyone who attends the conference.
A conference rate room block is now available at The Inn of the Mountain Gods, 287 Carrizo Canyon Rd., Mescalero, NM 88340.
The discounted room rate is $110 per room daily plus tax and applicable fees. You can make your reservation by calling (575) 464-7059. Be sure to tell them you are attending this conference to receive the conference rate. This room rate is only available for bookings made prior to March 20, 2026 after which time rooms may be available but at regular rates.
Kid’s Inc. Child Advocacy Center is excited for this year’s conference and can’t wait to see everyone in April!
Please reach out with any questions:
Cambri Syling, Executive Director, cambri@kidsinccac.com (575) 921-5032
Melanie Gilmore, MDT Coordinator, melanie@kidsinccac.com, (575) 921-8375