Concerns sexual assault training for prosecutors.

This bill (S 4784) requires New Jersey county prosecutors and assistant prosecutors handling sexual assault cases to complete in-person, biennial training on trauma-informed practices. The training curriculum must cover cultural competency (addressing race, gender, and socioeconomic factors), emotional intelligence for victim support, and victim-centered approaches prioritizing safety and autonomy to prevent re-traumatization. The Division of Criminal Justice must review the training annually (previously every five years) and the Attorney General must implement compliance audits and address noncompliance. The bill also adds a rape care advocate to the state’s sexual assault unit, which previously included only investigators and forensic nurses. This directly affects prosecutors, victim advocates, and survivors navigating the justice system.