Sexual Violence and Evidence Collection

Law Enforcement officers play an important role in preserving the chain of evidence in sexual assault cases. Successful preservation requires that the officer works closely with Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE).

This online event examined how law enforcement can work with SAFE's in order to collect sufficient evidence and provide quality care to the victim.  The panel discussed the importance of DNA collection and non-contamination, legal considerations, and the VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) requirement for states to provide free forensic exams to sexual assault victims who choose not to report the assault to law enforcement.