SARTs

SARTs, or Sexual Assault Response Teams, are coordinated, multidisciplinary teams in many communities that respond to reports of sexual assault. They bring together law enforcement, medical personnel, forensic services, prosecutors, and victim advocates to provide a streamlined, survivor-centered response that preserves evidence, facilitates reporting, and supports victims through medical and legal processes.

Core members typically include law enforcement investigators, sexual assault nurse examiners or other trained medical staff, prosecutors or district attorneys, certified victim advocates, rape crisis centers, and child protective services when appropriate. Some teams also include forensic interviewers and representatives from hospitals, university police, or tribal authorities. The exact composition varies by jurisdiction and setting.

SARTs operate through protocols that guide immediate response, medical care, evidence collection with informed consent and voluntary participation, and coordination of interviews and investigations. They emphasize timely medical assessment, confidential reporting options, safe housing or shelter referrals, and access to crisis counseling and legal assistance. The goal is to improve the survivor experience, ensure quality evidence collection, enhance communication among agencies, and support effective investigations and prosecutions.

Development and funding of SARTs began in the late 20th century as part of a broader shift toward coordinated community responses to sexual violence. In many places, SARTs receive support from federal and state crime victim assistance programs, health systems, and local government, and they commonly engage in ongoing training and quality assurance.

Impact assessments report improvements in survivor experience, standardized evidence collection, and collaboration, though outcomes vary by jurisdiction. Challenges include limited resources, staff turnover, data sharing and privacy concerns, and the need for consistent training. Related concepts include forensic nursing, rape crisis centers, victim advocacy, and rape kit procedures.