A forensic examiner may be asked to collect evidential specimens from a complainant or person of interest following allegations of sexual assault/rape. Commonly sampled sites include the mouth, vagina, anus, skin, hair, fingernails, blood, and urine. Forensic examiners often also assist with the collection of relevant clothing for analysis. Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of this role, practices vary widely with regard to both the procedure and the cut off sampling time periods for such collections. This chapter looks at the evidential basis for sampling of the body and collection of clothing. It does not cover issues surrounding contamination reduction nor does it cover hair, blood, or urine sampling for toxicology purposes. It aims to provide a ready reference for those working in the area who may be struggling to understand the rationale for evidence collection practices. The chapter is not designed to provide individuals with guidelines for the collection of evidence. When called upon to collect samples from a complainant or person of interest, it is strongly recommended that an examiner adhere to local practice, procedure, and policy.

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Evidence Collection from Victims and Suspects in Cases of Sexual Assault: The Evidence Behind the Practice

  • Maria Nittis,
  • Margaret Stark

摘要

A forensic examiner may be asked to collect evidential specimens from a complainant or person of interest following allegations of sexual assault/rape. Commonly sampled sites include the mouth, vagina, anus, skin, hair, fingernails, blood, and urine. Forensic examiners often also assist with the collection of relevant clothing for analysis. Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of this role, practices vary widely with regard to both the procedure and the cut off sampling time periods for such collections. This chapter looks at the evidential basis for sampling of the body and collection of clothing. It does not cover issues surrounding contamination reduction nor does it cover hair, blood, or urine sampling for toxicology purposes. It aims to provide a ready reference for those working in the area who may be struggling to understand the rationale for evidence collection practices. The chapter is not designed to provide individuals with guidelines for the collection of evidence. When called upon to collect samples from a complainant or person of interest, it is strongly recommended that an examiner adhere to local practice, procedure, and policy.