Illinois legislation would encourage reporting sexual assault
CHICAGO (AP) - A group of Illinois prosecutors and advocates say new legislation would encourage more victims of sexual assault to report the crime to authorities.
A Senate committee advanced the measure to the full Senate on Wednesday.
It would require police and 911 call centers to adopt policies for responding to sexual assaults that are more sensitive toward victims.
Law enforcement officers also would be required to complete a written report of every complaint, regardless of where it occurred or who is reporting it.
The measure was drafted in response to studies that suggest only 5 percent to 20 percent of rapes are reported to law enforcement.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan says the legislation will help "ensure that justice is being served."