Forensic Services Unit
More than a Decade of Seeking Justice & Healing Victims of Assault
Violence is a health care issue because it affects the mental and physical health of an individual, as well as families and the community. The Forensic Services Unit (FSU) collaborates with law enforcement agencies, the district attorney’s office, and other community partners to ensure justice and the healing of a victim. Hundreds of patients have benefited from the FSU process, examinations, and resources since the program began in 2010.
As the only program of its kind in California, Antelope Valley Medical Center’s unique community-benefited Forensic Services Unit helps patients with these types of cases:
- Sexual assault
- Child abuse
- Elder abuse and neglect
- Domestic violence
- Trauma
- Other suspicious injuries
The FSU team is highly trained and includes compassionate registered nurses who can expertly assess, document, photograph, and collect evidence of violence victims, whether they arrived at the hospital on their own or are referred by law enforcement. The unit also coordinates the medical/legal needs of victims, and provides support for those who have experienced life-changing events
The County of Los Angeles designates the FSU as a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) Center of Excellence for the care of pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients.
Forensic Services Unit and the Community
- Advisory Committee comprised of local law enforcement agencies and other community partners who monitor quality assurance and process improvement.
- Training Programs on relevant topics to raise awareness and educate.
- Presentations are sponsored throughout the year and by request.
If you are interested in donating, volunteering or would like to request training or a presentation, please call (661) 949-5570 .
Our partners at Valley Oasis provide a 24-hour sexual assault hotline at: (661)723-7273.
