The Need For Notification – Andrea Royer’s Story

Four years ago, Andrea was raped. She reported the crime to the police and went to the hospital for care. Thereafter, she was never informed of the status of her case. She was never told if her rapist was released from jail or even arrested. A short time later, during a trip to the grocery store, she came face-to-face with her rapist. Andrea had to relive her victimization.

Marsy’s Law would change this because it would require law enforcement to provide crime victims with a “Marsy’s Card” that would have notified Andrea of her rights, including the ability to register for the new Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN) system. The SAVIN program would have informed Andrea whether or not charges were filed and what the status of her case was. 

Marsy’s Law for South Dakota will ensure victims receive the notifications they deserve which, in turn, will help keep others from experiencing the revictimization Andrea and others in our state have endured.