Voice2Change

On this episode of Voice 2 Change, Jocelyn Maminta invites Dan Saban, a seasoned law enforcement professional from Arizona, to the conversation. Dan offers insights into his trailblazing work in victim advocacy, particularly his efforts to bridge gaps between law enforcement and communities. Through personal anecdotes and professional experiences, Dan discusses the evolution of handling sexual crimes and the creation of advocacy centers, providing a unique look at how specialized training in law enforcement has transformed victims' experiences. Join us for a heartfelt discussion and discover how each of us can contribute to meaningful change.Dan Sabin, a dedicated law enforcement officer from Arizona, first encountered Donna's remarkable story on an episode of Dateline several years ago. Deeply moved by her experiences and the challenges she faced, Dan found himself empathizing with her frustrations, which mirrored some of his own experiences in law enforcement. Dan has forty years of experience serving his community and pioneered the first family advocacy center in Arizona, in 2008. Topics Discussed:Dan got involved after seeing Donna's story on DatelineDan shares his career in law enforcement and victim advocacyEmphasis on building community connectionsHow victims benefit from a consolidated support systemThe importance of bringing in national experts to train law enforcementDeveloping specialized training for trauma-informed policingHow Dan shares his expertise across the country to help other programsYour voice matters — please ⁠take our short survey⁠ so we can keep creating content that speaks to you.Connect with Jane Doe No More:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Janedoenomore.org

In this episode of the Voice 2 Change podcast by Jane Doe No More, we talk with Rachel Henderson about the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners (SAFE) program in Connecticut. Rachel explains how the SAFE program provides a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to conducting medical forensic exams for sexual assault survivors. The conversation highlights the importance of the SAFE program in bridging healthcare and legal systems to support survivors, discussing how forensic nurses are trained, the challenges they face, and their impact in empowering survivors through choice and support. The episode also underscores the critical services provided by the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, offering extensive support and resources for victims throughout their healing and legal journey.Rachel Henderson is the response program manager for the Connecticut Judicial Branch Office of Victim Services, specifically for the Gail Burns Smith, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) program. With over a decade of emergency department nursing experience and 25 years of providing emergent patient care across the state, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role. She oversees 33 SAFE professionals who respond to eight hospitals and one student health center in central and eastern Connecticut.Topics Discussed:Explanation of SAFE programIntegration of law enforcement and healthcare systemsMale nurses' challenges and patient comfort considerationsCore of empathetic careMeeting patients where they areEmpowering patient rights and choicesBuilding rapport and collaboration with advocacy groupsRole of forensic nurses in courtrooms and legal processesNoticing a gap in staff confidence for assault casesEffects of compassionate care on patient behaviorConnect with Jane Doe No More:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Janedoenomore.org

In today's episode of Voice2Change, our guest Kristen Gibbons Feden delves into the complexities of legal battles against sexual predators and institutions. Drawing from her extensive background as a former prosecutor and current civil litigator, Feden discusses the critical importance of building trust with survivors, preparing them for the arduous legal process. The conversation underscores the essential role of expert testimony, the challenges of prosecuting intimate partner violence cases, and the profound impact of financial compensation in aiding survivors' recovery. The episode not only addresses the legal and emotional intricacies involved but also provides resources and emphasizes community support in preventing future sexual violence.Kristen Gibbons Feden is a distinguished attorney and former prosecutor renowned for her impactful work in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, one of the state's largest counties. Driven by a deep commitment to public service, Feden dedicated her legal career to seeking justice for victims, particularly in cases involving sexual crimes. Her prosecutorial expertise extended to handling a wide array of serious offenses, including childhood sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, and elder exploitation. Through her dedication and service, Feden has established a legacy of advocating for the vulnerable and striving for justice within the legal system.Topics Discussed:Legal battles against sexual predators and institutionsBuilding trust and allowing survivors to share their stories on their own termsTransparency and explaining each step of the legal processPreparing survivors for cross-examination and harsh questioningFamiliarizing survivors with the courtroom and supporting them during trialsEmphasis on policy changes to prevent sexual violenceImportance of expert testimony to educate juriesCriticism of institutions prioritizing profit over safetyCases involving severe trauma and the necessity of compensationConnect with Jane Doe No More:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Janedoenomore.org

In today's Voice2Change episode, we dive deep into the world of investigative journalism with our guest, Rachel de Leon. Known for her impactful documentaries, Rachel joins us to discuss her latest work, "Victim/Suspect," now streaming on Netflix. This documentary reveals the complex and often troubling dynamics involved when victims report sexual crimes, only to find themselves doubted or even criminalized by the very system meant to protect them. From uncovering interrogation tactics to highlighting stories too often dismissed, Rachel's investigation shines a light on the urgent need for reform. Join us as we venture into the heart of these critical issues, offering insights, hope, and voices that demand to be heard. Topics Discussed: Balancing sensitivity with journalistic rigor False reporting allegations and police investigation scrutiny Coercive methods used by detectives on victims Understanding Miranda Rights & arrest procedures Emotional challenges for victims resulting from criminalization and recantations Advice for aspiring investigative reporters Editing and content decisions Transparency, source reliability and the impact on individuals Connect with Jane Doe No More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠

In today's Voice2Change episode, we delve into the critical issue of rape kit backlogs and the profound impact it has on sexual assault survivors. We'll discuss the frustration expressed by the lack of tracking for rape kits and the incredible efforts being made in Michigan and other states to implement tracking systems for victims, giving access to monitor the status of their rape kits. Join us as we uncover the challenges, progress, and crucial initiatives to address this issue, and learn why it is so important. Our guest Rebecca Campbell graduated with a degree in psychology from Michigan State University and went on to do an internship at a domestic violence rape crisis center. She volunteered with survivors in hospital emergency rooms and helped them with medical forensic exams. This experience inspired her to go to graduate school and become a research psychologist, focusing on improving support for rape survivors. Her work is motivated by her experiences as a volunteer and her desire to make a positive impact in this field. The lack of tracking for rape kits Backlog in Detroit of 11,000 rape kits dating back to the 1980s Efforts to address the issue and prevent future backlogs Victims' rights regarding rape kit exams Law enforcement misconceptions about rape Understanding the resources available for sexual assault survivors Efforts to prevent similar backlogs in the future Connect with Jane Doe No More: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on IG⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Voice2Change podcast is Jane Doe No More's new show coming soon!