The Division of Criminal Justice today reminds Coloradans that, under a law passed by the General Assembly in 2008, victims of sexual assault are not required to pay for a forensic examination administered by medical professionals, regardless whether the victim agrees to participate in a criminal investigation, says Nancy Feldman, Director of the Office for Victims Programs in the Colorado Division of Criminal Justice.
Recent news stories alleging rape by a professional football player cited an affidavit in which the victim of a sexual assault last year was told that she would have to pay $500 to cover the cost of the forensic examination. Due at least partially to the cost, the victim declined to get a forensic examination on the day after the attack when she sought medical attention. She was not provided with an exam, according to court documents, because she initially declined to file a police report. The victim later decided to participate in the investigation, and an arrest warrant was issued for the alleged attacker in December 2010.
"Victims of sexual assault should never be asked to pay for a forensic examination, even if the victim does not immediately decide to pursue charges," says Feldman. "That's the reason this law was passed, and the Division of Criminal Justice diligently tries to educate citizens, agencies in the criminal justice system and health care professionals."
The cost of the forensic examination is covered by the investigating law enforcement agency. A fund administered by the Division of Criminal Justice covers the cost of the forensic exam in situations when the victim does not want immediately to have law enforcement involved..
For more information about the statute: http://dcj.state.co.us/ovp/Forensic%20Exams.html
Tribute to Dijoun Quinn of Commerce City... There is now a $2500 reward posted by the Commerce City
A Shooting Claims the life of 18 year old Dijoun Quinn... COMMERCE CITY - The Commerce City Police Department is investigating a shooting that occurred in the 6500 block of Holly St. Officers responded to a report of shots being fired in the area. When they arrived they found a male lying on the ground. It appears that an 18 year old male was walking southbound on Holly St when he was shot multiple times. The male was transported to the hospital but did not survive his injuries. Commerce City police identified the 18-year-old as Dijoun Quinn, a recent graduate of Adams City High School who had enlisted in the Army. Quinn's Grandfather says his grandson didn't have any enemies and was not in a gang. There is no suspect information available at this time, and investigators are encouraging anyone with information to contact Detective Bryan VanderMeer at 303-289-3629 or the Commerce City Tip Line at 303-289-3626. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released as it becomes available.
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