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Commission adopts updates to Procedure 3.4 on sexual-assault exams and victim support
Summary
The commission approved amended Procedure 3.4 after staff and public advocates pushed to restore a 120-hour safe-kit exam window, remove language implying investigator certification, and clarify victim-support referrals including the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP).
The Eugene Police Commission unanimously approved revisions to Procedure 3.4 on Feb. 12 after a multi-commissioner discussion about victim support, investigator qualifications and evidence-collection language.
Sergeant Jordan, who presented the draft changes, said detectives and the violent-crimes unit recommended returning to a 120-hour window for safe-kit sexual-assault exams, and removing the word "qualified" when it might imply a formal certification for investigators. "We went back to the hundred and 20 hours for the safe kit exam," Sergeant Jordan said.
Commissioners and community advocates asked how the department connects victims to trauma supports. Commissioners heard that the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) is available locally 24/7 for support-person referrals, but staff cautioned about preserving the program's confidentiality and limiting volunteer exposure to evidentiary testimony that could lead to subpoenas.
Other clarifications adopted included editorial changes to a list of suggested evidence-collection actions (commissioners asked that wording reflect judgment within the list rather than mandatory steps) and confirmation that officers have access to an internal PDF resource guide for community supports.
The commission voted to adopt the procedure with the requested language adjustments and referred Sergeant Jordan to prepare the final redline for staff publication.
