STATEHOUSE (March 24, 2021) – Legislation sponsored by State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) improving sexual assault investigations across the state can now be considered by the governor for a new law.
According to Engleman, officers who regularly investigate sexual assaults against adults would receive specialized training on how the brain reacts to trauma and the best investigatory techniques to use in order to build trust and rapport with victims, while collecting stronger evidence. She said trauma-informed interviewing frames questions in a way that helps the victim understand what they are being asked, and in an attitude that does not jump to conclusions or judgement.
"The trauma sexual assault survivors face is unimaginable, and they deserve to see justice," Engleman said. "Giving law enforcement the training needed to effectively and appropriately interview victims should lead to more efficient evidence gathering during a case, so criminals can be prosecuted."
Developed by police officers using information from medical studies, Engleman said the robust, trauma-informed training is a continuation of efforts to strengthen the prosecution of sexual assault cases and the support for victims.
The Indiana Law Enforcement Academy would adapt its current sexual assault training to meet the new standards.
According to the Indiana Coalition to End Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking, 1 in 5 Hoosier women have been sexually assaulted, while 85% of assaults are not reported to police.
Senate Enrolled Act 81 is now eligible for action by the governor. Visit iga.in.gov to learn more.
-30-
State Rep. Karen Engleman (R-Georgetown) represents House District 70,
which includes most of Harrison County, along with portions of Clark and Floyd counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
