USU SAAVI Office Warns Survivors About MeToo Kits

Utah State University’s Sexual Assault and Anti-Violence Information office was recently made aware of at-home sexual assault evidence collection kits, "MeToo Kits,” being promoted to campus communities across the country. These kits are marketed as an option for survivors to complete a sexual assault evidence collection kit in the “setting and timing of their choice.”

However, these kits do not ensure the protection of the chain of custody and evidence integrity, making it unlikely they could be admissible in court. Additionally, the use of these kits does not provide comprehensive treatment for a survivor, including addressing the mental health impacts of the trauma they have experienced. Perhaps most concerning, these kits are being sold to survivors, while sexual assault medical forensic exams are offered at no cost. 

“As an office consisting of survivor advocates, trauma-informed therapists and prevention educators we cannot support these kits,” said Felicia Gallegos, SAAVI outreach and prevention coordinator. 

“While we will continue to advocate for survivors to be in complete control of their journey, we strongly encourage all survivors to seek professional medical care, and, if a survivor decides it is the best option for them, a forensic exam through a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE),” Gallegos continued.

In doing so, survivors can be sure the legal processes that are required for admissible evidence are followed. Additionally, survivors will be provided the necessary care addressing mental health impacts and potential instances of pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted diseases. 

To speak with an advocate in the SAAVI office, visit Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Taggart Student Center, room 311. Or call 435-797-7273 or email saavi@usu.edu.

For medical assistance and a sexual assault medical forensic exam, go to:
Cache Valley Hospital
435-719-9700
2380 N. 400 E., North Logan

For emergency assistance:
Call 911 or call USU Police at 435-797-1939

Call Citizens Against Physical and Sexual Abuse (CAPSA) 24-Hour Support Line: 435-753-2500

The SAAVI office is dedicated to ensuring the students, faculty and staff of Utah State University engage in safe and healthy relationships. The office provides free and confidential advocacy and therapy to primary and secondary survivors of all forms of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault.