AG Madigan Issues Guidelines for Responding to Sexual Assault Crimes
“We took a comprehensive look at why sexual assault survivors rarely report their crimes to law enforcement, and it was clear that our criminal justice system can and must respond, investigate and better support survivors,” Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said in a statement.
“The new law is intended to encourage more survivors of these devastating crimes to come forward, receive justice and begin the healing process. These comprehensive guidelines will help to ensure law enforcement agencies are responsive to survivors.”
As part of required training, first responders will be taught to recognize the symptoms of trauma, understand the role of trauma in a victim’s life and deliver services in a compassionate, sensitive and nonjudgmental manner.
Under the new rules, law enforcement will be required to complete a written report of all sexual assaults reported to them, regardless of where the incident occurred or who is reporting it. If a third party reports the incident, that person must have the victim’s permission and provide law enforcement with his or her contact information.
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