BOSTON -- A deep budget cut is planned for a state program that helps put predators behind bars.

The 120 doctors and nurses who work with the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program help collect evidence from rape victims.

It has helped prosecutors convict 90 percent of all rape cases in the state, but now the program's funding is being cut by 43 percent.

Without the specially-trained nurses, emergency room staff will be administering rape kits.

The state said that it is committed to working with hospitals to ensure that all victims will continue to get the help they need.