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TACOMA, Wash. — It will be two years in December since the children of Josh and Susan Powell have seen their mom. From the eyes of these boys, you can say it has been a confusing couple years.
Last week, they were placed in foster care after their grandfather — whose Washington state home they were living in with their father — was arrested on charges of voyeurism and possession of child pornography. Then just two days ago, they were reunited with their maternal grandparents — people they haven't seen for quite a while.
To say the least these two little boys have been on an up and down emotional journey. One bit of consistency they have had while in Washington is Pierce County Sheriff's Detective Sgt. Teresa Berg.
One look inside Berg's office and you know she's not a typical investigator. Teddy bears sit next to official certificates and paperwork.
"I feel blessed to have this position," she told KSL News Friday. "I love my job."
Berg is lead investigator of child homicides, as well as the head of the Special Assault Unit — they handle sexual assault and abuse cases. But it's more than investigation. Berg and her detectives are there to look out for the rights of children.
Right now for Berg, that includes the children of Susan and Josh Powell.
"It was a pretty instant bond," Berg said. "They're wonderful kids. They're smart; a joy to be around."
When helicopter video showed the kids in their backyard as police served a search warrant Aug. 25, Berg was there too. But most of her work is behind the scenes.
I feel blessed to have this position. I love my job.
–Detective Sgt. Teresa Berg, Pierce County Sheriff's Office
She'll be there for court hearings, and was there when the boys were removed from the home. She says her team doesn't want to "just go in and remove the kids to remove them, but to go in and have cause and do this one time."
Berg began her work with the sheriff's office 25 years ago. She was the fifth female to join the force. That lead to her getting many of the cases involving kids — she was good with them and she liked it, even though the subject matter is heavy.
"For me, it's both sad to work this but it's joyful: one, because I can do something about it," Berg said. "I have the authority, so I can make kids safe if need be. And if it's too late, I can see justice for them."
When it comes to the Powell boys, Berg says she believes she is making a difference as a dedicated and empathic advocate in their corner.
"I treat them just like I would have hoped my kids would have been treated if something happens," she said.
Email: sdallof@ksl.com
