After sexual violence: Uri government wants to investigate evidence without reporting obligation

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In the canton of Uri, 106 cases of sexual violence have been reported in the past five years, SP district director Chiara Gisler writes in the interpellation. A survey by the “Association for the Promotion of Practical Social Research” found that only 8 percent of attacks were reported across Switzerland.

The interpellant mentions fear, shame and a lack of confidence in the police and the judiciary as reasons. Often the punishments are very lenient, or the victim is blamed for the crime.

She therefore proposed that the government adapt the Berne model in the canton of Uri. This includes care by female specialists, institutionalized cooperation and medical care and forensic evidence without a reporting obligation. Those affected can have themselves examined without having to report immediately. The evidence is kept for fifteen years.

The government council considers the request sensible, the government council writes in its response. For example, he thinks that a solution like that of the University Hospital of Zurich is conceivable. Research boxes designed by the Institute of Forensic Medicine (IRM) are used to secure all necessary traces for use in court. These would then be stored by the IRM.

The box in question is already in use at Uri Cantonal Hospital, but the police are always present. According to the government council, an amendment to the law will be necessary to waive the reporting obligation in the future.

Under current law, health professionals are obliged to report any perception indicating a violation of the sexual integrity of children and young people under the age of 18. Even in the case of adults, staff may notify law enforcement authorities without their consent. To make it possible to secure evidence without a reporting obligation, the law must be amended.

The government council also explained that it should be investigated whether the cantonal hospital is prepared to carry out the forensic investigation independently. It should also be clarified who will reimburse the hospital’s services, as the costs are not covered by social insurance.

District administrator Chiara Gisler was satisfied with the government’s answers at the December meeting. (SDA)

Source:Blick