ABSTRACT
Many SATUs also allow complainants who do not wish to involve the authorities. However, in Ireland,
while such cases will be seen at the SATU for reassurance and provision of appropriate care, there is no facility to take and store forensic specimens should the patient subsequently decide to involve the Gardaí. For this reason, patients are advised to report to the Gardaí in the first instance, before the forensic evidence deteriorates. In some other countries, patients can attend the SATU where the anonymized assessment and collection of samples will be held, so that a complainant may later proceed with police investigation if they change their mind.
