DPS NEWS

SBI Continues Series of Trainings for Sex Crimes Investigators

For the eighth in its series of trainings for sex crimes investigators, the State Bureau of Investigation, through the support of the SAKI program and crime lab, invited pediatric forensic nurse Mary Lassiter to present information about Primary Children’s Hospital’s Center for Safe and Healthy Families.

The presentation was designed to introduce investigators to who the Center for Safe and Healthy Families is, who the organization serves, and how the investigators can connect with the center. Tragically, over half of sex crimes involve victims under the age of 18.  Connecting sex crimes investigators with the Center for Safe and Healthy Families is an important step toward helping victims.  Nurses respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year when requested by Law Enforcement, providing emergency exams at Primary Children’s Hospital, as well as scheduled exams at their own facility nearby.

Nurse Lassiter reviewed the protocol for child sexual assault exams, and emphasized how the clinic staff collaborates with law enforcement agencies to care for children.  This comprehensive response includes, but is not limited to, medical care, evidence collection, advocacy, counseling services, and court testimony.

For additional information about the Center for Safe and Healthy Families, visit https://intermountainhealthcare.org/services/pediatrics/services/child-protection-and-family-health/child-abuse-and-neglect-treatment/