Rape Exam Controversy In Calaveras County

San Andreas, CA — When it comes to the treatment of rape victims there is a major disagreement between the Calaveras County officials and Mark Twain-St. Joseph´s Hospital in San Andreas.

County officials want the treatment to be performed locally so victims do not have to be transported to a facility as far away as U.C. Davis. Undersheriff Michael Walker says law enforcement agencies are always under time constraints for physical evidence.

Meanwhile hospital President Michael Lawson says the exams are an evidence gathering process, not a medical procedure and he simply doesn´t have the staff to handle that type of responsibility.

County officials will be meeting soon with Lawson in an effort to find a amicable solution to the issue.

Written by Bill Johnson