Legislators hear request to fund forensic strangulation exams after sharp rise in demand

Lawmakers heard testimony asking for continued funding to reimburse forensic exams for strangulation and intimate‑partner violence.

Representative Acton described the problem: strangulation often leaves few visible marks but carries high lethality risk and is a strong predictor of homicide. Dana Thomas, executive director of Wasatch Forensic Nurses, explained that exams serve two purposes: immediate, trauma‑informed medical care and the collection and preservation of forensic evidence for investigations and prosecutions. Thomas said her team conducted about 21 such exams in 2019 and roughly 184 in 2025 in their service area.

Sergeant Kevin Mallory of Unified Police described the investigatory value of exams, the bridge they provide between clinicians and investigators, and preliminary internal data showing improved prosecutorial outcomes when exams are used.

Representatives on the committee acknowledged the medical and prosecutorial arguments and had no further questions during the hearing. The RFA will be considered in committee appropriations decisions.