By: Richard L. Smith
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced a significant update to New Jersey’s approach to handling sexual assault cases, extending the period for activating Sexual Assault Response Teams (SART) from five to seven days after an incident is reported.
The announcement came during the Sexual Violence Prevention Symposium held at the New Jersey State Police Forensic Technology Center.
This change, detailed in Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2024-02, reflects advancements in forensic science that enable longer periods for effective evidence collection.
Previously, the activation period was confined to the first 72 hours post-assault, later extended to five days.
Now, the new seven-day period allows forensic exams to be conducted up to nine days under certain circumstances, as assessed by a forensic nurse examiner.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the importance of evolving law enforcement practices to keep pace with scientific advancements, stating, "As forensic science capabilities evolve, so must our law enforcement guidance.”
He highlighted that the extended period is supported by research and will help more victims access the services they need.
Patricia Teffenhart, Executive Director of the Division of Violence Intervention and Victim Assistance, commended the Directive for enhancing the justice and healing processes for survivors.
She noted that the updated policy ensures survivors have greater access to necessary resources in the aftermath of sexual violence.
J. Stephen Ferketic, Director of Criminal Justice, also supported the update, noting that extended timelines for meeting with forensic nurse examiners lead to better-prepared medical documents and evidence that can significantly improve the chances of successful prosecutions.
This Directive is part of a broader effort by the Department of Law and Public Safety to strengthen support for survivors.
Initiatives include the creation of a Human Trafficking Unit and a trauma-informed division dedicated to reducing interpersonal violence, the implementation of national best practices for managing sexual assault kits, and the development of a state-of-the-art tracking system for these kits, supported by federal funding.
The Attorney General's Office continues to advance its support through the Attorney General’s Symposium Series, with the next event focusing on community violence scheduled for June.
These initiatives underscore New Jersey's commitment to using data-driven, scientifically informed strategies to support and protect victims of sexual violence.