Rutherford (TN) DA and victim advocates say county’s largest hospital stopped providing rape kit exams
Rutherford (TN) DA and victim advocates say county’s largest hospital stopped providing rape kit exams
Rutherford County District Attorney Jennings Jones says Ascension St. Thomas refuses to provide rape kit exams, a claim the hospital disputes.
Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro has reportedly stopped offering forensic exams for sexual assault survivors since early this year. Ericka Downing, director of the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center, said no exams have been performed since January. District Attorney Jennings Jones expressed concern, stating the hospital’s refusal to provide forensic exams hampers prosecution efforts. Despite these claims, hospital spokesperson David Leaverton denied any change in services, citing challenges in maintaining 24/7 nurse coverage. Rachel Freeman, CEO of Nashville's Sexual Assault Center, confirmed her facility has conducted exams for Rutherford County survivors.