Tucson’s Second Forensic Investigation Center Opens for Sexual Assault Victims | Local news

Just being able to offer the service on site, regardless of whether the victims accept it or not, is important, said Zukowski.

She said the idea had gained momentum in recent years after a Banner Foundation grant allowed her, Johnson, and Dr. Dale Woolridge made it possible to spend time planning and preparing the space. It also covered the cost of some additional equipment, including a scope and exam chair.

“We just weren’t ready to give up. This is such an important service that we really need to give the survivor the best possible support,” said Zukowski.

Johnson said the project was a collaborative effort. “This should not be in competition with other services in the city. It’s supposed to complement them, ”said Johnson.

The Justice Department grant will also fund the establishment of a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), made up of experts from the UA, Banner and the community, who will lead the program to ensure that it meets the needs of survivors.

The UA is one of eight universities in the country receiving grant funding to help expand Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner programs that provide medical forensic care, advocacy and other victim services. Almost $ 4 million in funding was awarded.

While Tucson has community-based SART and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners who conduct exams in community hospitals, those services are typically off campus, said Elise Lopez, director of the UA Consortium on Gender-Based Violence and lead investigator for the grant.

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