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 program
• Integration of law enforcement and healthcare systems
• Male nurses' challenges and patient comfort considerations
• Core of empathetic care
• Meeting patients where they are
• Empowering patient rights and choices
• Building rapport and collaboration with advocacy groups
• Role of forensic nurses in courtrooms and legal processes
• Noticing a gap in staff confidence for assault cases
• Effects of compassionate care on patient behavior

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In this episode of the Voice2Change podcast we discuss teen dating violence, featuring our special guest Brenda Harkavy, a former SVU prosecutor and experienced litigator. The discussion reveals that one in three teens experiences dating violence, with both physical and digital forms of abuse being prevalent. Harkavy explains various warning signs of teen dating violence, including excessive texting, controlling behavior, digital harassment, and isolation tactics.

The episode focuses on the importance of parents maintaining open communication with their teens about healthy relationships and the potential dangers of digital interactions. Brenda also talks about legal protections and resources for teens in abusive relationships.

Brenda Harkavy is an experienced litigator who has represented numerous survivors in cases involving institutional misconduact. She previously served as a Special Victims Unit (SVU) prosecutor, where she handled hundreds of teen dating violence cases in Baltimore City and other jurisdictions. During her time as an SVU prosecutor, she was actively involved in educating teens about dating violence by facilitating assemblies at local high schools. Topics Discussed:

• Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
• Signs and types of teen dating violence
• Importance of raising awareness about unhealthy relationships
• Statistics on teen dating violence in the U.S.
• Empowering teens to recognize signs of abuse
• Legal implications and potential for escalating behavior
• Legal Protections for Teens
• Educating children about their digital footprint
• Setting healthy boundaries and limits for internet use

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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 institutions
• Building trust and allowing survivors to share their stories on their own terms
• Transparency and explaining each step of the legal process
• Preparing survivors for cross-examination and harsh questioning
• Familiarizing survivors with the courtroom and supporting them during trials
• Emphasis on policy changes to prevent sexual violence
• Importance of expert testimony to educate juries
• Criticism of institutions prioritizing profit over safety
• Cases involving severe trauma and the necessity of compensation

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