ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. (WGNO) — In a recent vote made by the St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce and after “careful consideration,” the board of directors announced its support of the recall of Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape.
Following his election into office on March 25, after running unopposed, Tape made the “unilateral decision” to discontinue the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program that is known for providing a “first-class” response to a “traumatic” experience.
Directors claim the action was a “business decision.”
An investigation into Tape’s background led to the discovery of child sexual abuse charges brought against him more than 20 years ago.
Additionally, Tape was arrested in New Mexico in 2001 on six counts of child sexual abuse. The charges were ultimately dropped due to delayed indictment.
In February, a group of legislators called for Tape’s resignation on the claims that he is “unfit” for the position due to the allegations. The public expressed its support behind the recall movement.
To the demand, Tape responded, “I won’t be resigning.”
“I maintain my innocence,” Tape said. “That was 23 years ago these accusations were made. That’s all I need to say about it. If you don’t believe in innocence until proven guilty, you won’t qualify for a jury.”
On March 28, Tape said he would consider bringing the SANE program back stating that it would be “a trial period while other parishes and agencies involved develop alternative plans.”
The reconsideration comes after a lawsuit was filed against him by three other Louisiana parish coroners.
Jefferson Parish Coroner Dr. Jerry Cvitanovich said dropping the program would be a step backward for nurses and their training.
“What they are trained on is how to interview a person who’s been sexually assaulted, then they have to do evidence collection; and then last but not least, you have to be a resource for the district attorney for when he or she goes to prosecute a perpetrator,” Cvitanovich said.
As a result of the lawsuit, a restraining order was filed by the coroners and the Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response Center, to stop Tape from cutting the SANE program.
On April 5, Tape responded to the surrounding controversy, stating that he hears what’s being said, but it should have no ramification on whether or not he is fit for his current position.
“Now the public can talk whatever they want. It’s public opinion; but again, are we going to change the Constitution to say if you’ve been charged but not convicted you could never hold office? So again, the people who say I’m unfit for office; they wouldn’t even qualify to be on jury duty,” Tape said.
The Board of Directors said it’s encouraging members to support and sign the recall petition circulating around the parish.
“We encourage our members to sign the recall petition,” said Chamber President and CEO Lacey
Osborne. “The website RecallTape.com is the best place to find locations throughout the parish to sign the petition.” The website also provides updated information about the recall effort.
The board adds that the decision was made based on the information and research provided along with lengthy discussions.
“We encourage our members to sign the recall petition,” said Chamber President and CEO Lacey
Osborne. “The website RecallTape.com is the best place to find locations throughout the parish to sign the petition.” The website also provides updated information about the recall effort.”
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