By Tony McVeigh
Frankfort, KY – Revised Kentucky law now requires rape exams to be made available to sexual assault victims, even if the crime has not yet been reported. In accordance with the law, medical facilities across the state have access to Sexual Assault Forensic-Medical Exams, or SAFE exams. Kentucky State Police Lt. Col. Mike Sapp says the exams are essential to the evidence-gathering process.
"With these new SAFE kits, I think by encouraging all victims to get medical attention and an examination - whether or not they report for police - will increase our chances and opportunity for convictions in these cases."
Sapp says rape victims often are reluctant to immediately report the crime, but if they later change their mind, prosecution is difficult without proper evidence. That's why medical evidence gathered during a SAFE exam will be stored for 90 days.