Pursuant to LSA R.S. 13:5713 F as amended by Act 229 of the 2015 Louisiana Legislature, the Coroner or his designee shall examine all alleged victims of a sexually-oriented criminal offense. The Coroner may select the hospital or healthcare provider named as the lead entity for sexual assault examinations in the regional plan required by R.S.40:1216.1 as his designee to perform the forensic medical examination.
Sexual assault is an all too common occurrence that affects both victims and their support systems. The Plaquemines Parish Coroner's Office (PPCO), Plaquemines Medical Center, and the Plaquemines Care Center recognize the need to help sexual assault victims begin the healing process. A forensic medical exam can be done up to five days (120 hours) after the assault has occurred, but getting treatment sooner than later is best for the victim.