Psychology: Social Development Consultants: 1

Dr. Heather Manning, Ph.D., is a Forensic Criminologist and consultant specializing in child protection, abuse prevention, institutional risk assessment, and investigative analysis. As the founder of SAFE – Sentinel Assessments & Forensic Evaluations, she provides consulting services to organizations seeking to strengthen safety practices, mitigate risk, and improve responses to allegations of abuse and exploitation.

Dr. Manning works with law enforcement agencies, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and youth-serving organizations to develop proactive systems designed to identify vulnerabilities, prevent abuse, and support effective investigative practices. Her consulting services include institutional risk assessments, policy and procedure development, investigative consultation on sexually based crimes, interview practice guidance, and the development of prevention-focused training programs.

With a background in forensic criminology and extensive experience analyzing cases involving sexual exploitation, violence, and institutional misconduct, Dr. Manning provides expert insight into offender behavior patterns, grooming dynamics, and systemic failures that allow abuse to occur within organizations.

Through SAFE, she assists organizations in building stronger safeguards by integrating evidence-informed training, risk mitigation strategies, and investigative consultation. Her work focuses on helping institutions recognize warning signs earlier, strengthen accountability systems, and create environments that prioritize the protection of children and vulnerable populations.

Dr. Manning is also available for case consultation, program development, training design, and expert analysis in both civil and criminal matters involving sexual abuse, exploitation, and institutional risk.

View Heather Manning's Expert Witness Profile.