CONTACT: DEAN ALVERSON

404-781-0366

ATLANTA - John Turner, candidate for Fulton County District Attorney, today called for an expansion of the number of rape crisis centers throughout Fulton County. At present, Grady Hospital is the only rape crisis center in the county. There have been continued problems with the operation of the center and the accessibility of rape management within the Grady program.

Most recently, there has been chain of evidence problems between the hospital, police department and the Fulton County DAs office that could result in essential evidence not being allowed as part of the prosecution.

"It is a travesty when a young women is brutally assaulted and her attackers go free due to the mishandling of the evidence", said Turner. The citizens of Fulton County deserve better management of such a violent and personal crime. "We should be doing everything in our power to ensure that criminals are punished and that the victim is dealt with in a caring manner". This means making available support for the victim and insuring that no person walks free because of technical issues such as "chain of evidence."

"The failure of Grady hospital and the District Attorney�s office to properly manage such chases will cease on Day One of my tenure as District Attorney." My commitment is to the citizens of Fulton County and their right to live without fear of their sexual attackers going free."

It takes more than promises during an election year to make things happen. Therefore, when elected District Attorney John will:

1. Seek additional grant money for crimes against women.
2. Work to put in place additional rape crisis centers to manage these crimes.
3. Establish an educational unit within the District Attorney�s office to ensure that all persons involved in the prosecution of such cases are well equipped to handle them.
4. Devote the necessary resources within the DAs office to handle crimes against women.

"Together we can make a difference to the citizens of Fulton County in the conviction criminals. As District Attorney, that is my promise."

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