Shannon Vincent interviews York County Coroner Sabrina Gast about the coroner's role in death investigations. They discuss how coroners differ from medical examiners, how cases are handled at the scene, evidence collection, autopsy decisions, family notifications, and the legal and emotional challenges involved.

The episode explains qualifications for coroners in South Carolina, the process of working with law enforcement and pathologists, and what families can expect during investigations and autopsy decisions.

Hello and welcome to another episode of Why be Silent with Shannon Vincent and guest Karin Ho from the South Carolina Department of Corrections. Karin explains what victim advocates do, the differences between community- and system-based advocacy, and the services available post-conviction, including victim notification systems, victim-offender dialogue, restorative programs, training, and barriers to access.

She also covers support for correctional staff, critical incident stress management, and practical guidance for victims on registering for notifications and asking for help.

Desert Waters Correctional Outreach

Home | Office for Victims of Crime

National Advocate Credentialing Program (NACP) | NOVA

National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI)

National Institute of Corrections | NIC

Victims' Rights - Constitutional Amendments

Host Shannon Vincet speaks with Kenneth James, a PREA expert and corrections leader, about the Prison Rape Elimination Act: its origins, national standards, recent statistics, reporting procedures, protections for victims, and the resources and services available both inside and outside correctional facilities.

The episode highlights South Carolina’s initiatives, the importance of leadership and trust, and practical steps victims and families can take to access care and support.

https://www.prearesourcecenter.org/

https://doc.sc.gov/sites/doc/files/Documents/policy/GA-06-11.pdf

https://doc.sc.gov/sites/doc/files/Documents/policy/GA-06-11B.pdf

https://doc.sc.gov/preaweb

https://www.ojp.gov/news/news-release/bjs-releases-sexual-victimization-prisons-reported-inmates-2023-24-and-sexual