Since the implementation of SANE programs, a Department of Justice report showed a 95 percent increase in successful prosecution of cases where evidence was collected by a SANE-certified nurse.
Rockwall, TX (April 30, 2025) – Texas Health recognizes the need to help sexual assault victims right away to begin the healing process. In addition, hospitals can play an important role in the potential collection of physical evidence to aid in the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases. In 2020, Texas Health Rockwall developed a forensics program with sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE) recognizing this need in our growing community.
Victims of any age can be seen and treated at any time of the day or night in the Texas Health Rockwall emergency department. SANE-certified nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They know that when a sexual assault crisis strikes, it’s important for victims to receive health care in a safe, respected and professional manner – all while working to collect specimens that have the potential to be valid forensic evidence.
Texas Health Rockwall’s SANE Coordinator, Jennifer Knight MSN, RN, CA-CP SANE says, “For me there is something about meeting someone in their most vulnerable position, and providing them with the support, guidance, and care that they deserve. Helping someone find their own healing. That’s why I do what I do!”
The Texas Health Rockwall SAFE program includes:
- Secure exam room(s) specifically set up for medical forensic examinations
- Secure family waiting room(s)
- Law enforcement/patient advocacy room(s)
- Private bathroom(s) with shower(s)
- Secure access to evidence collection for law enforcement personnel
Texas Health Rockwall has partnered up with the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center (DARCC) and the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County (CACRC) to provide services for patients of all ages. Additionally, the hospital is a regular supporter of the Children’s Advocacy Center, their awareness and education programs, and April’s Go Blue Gala.
Patricia Mejia, CACRC President and CEO is well versed in the hospital’s SANE program. “I am so grateful for our partnership and the great work Texas Health Rockwall does to ensure children in our community receive recommended services” says Mejia. “A medical evaluation is a critical component of a child’s healing from abuse.”
Staff receive specialized training on how to care for victims of all ages and genders. This training is extensive and includes proper examination processes to preserve and collect evidence, all while providing emotional support and connected victims with services for comprehensive care and healing.
“I chose to be a SANE nurse because every survivor deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion and care,” says Kim Crawford, RN, Director of Emergency Services and the SANE program at Texas Health Rockwall. “I want to be a voice for the voiceless and stand by survivors as they begin their healing process.”
Submitted article, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. Photos courtesy Texas Health Rockwall.
Texas Health Hospital Rockwall provides sex assault victims with a SAFE place for initial care added by Melanie M on
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