Rights of Victims of Strangulation/Choking
According to Kansas Statutes, it is a felony crime when anyone is strangled/choked in an interpersonal/domestic relationship. This includes anything being placed on or around your neck as well as pressure applied to your chest.
If you are or have been a victim of strangulation, there is help available for you.
ESCAPE
What to Expect
- Your privacy to be maintained
- Compassionate, supportive medical care
- Have everything explained to you
- A complete history will be taken
- Seek informed consent
- Conduct a head-to-toe examination
- Collect evidence as indicated
- Perform lab work, if needed
- Perform imaging studies, if needed
- Provide follow-up and referrals
- Provide community resources
Preserving DNA Evidence
Evidence preservation following strangulation is important to building a case and assisting forensic nurses and law enforcement. Patients should refrain from showering or bathing until they come to the hospital to be examined. Bring any other items related to the strangulation with you to the hospital or give them to law enforcement.