Rape and Sex Crime Investigation
Rape and Sex Crime Investigation
Rape and Sex Crime Investigation
Introduction:
1) By a man who shall have carnal knowledge of a woman under any of the following
circumstances:
The investigation into rape and other sex related crimes presents a significant challenge
for the crime scene specialist and investigation.
Sex crimes range from voyeurism (peeping tom) to rape and murder.
Rape and sex crimes are likely to leave emotional scars that last a lifetime.
As a result, the handling of the victims, witnesses, and even offenders, demands
special attention and a high level of compassion and skill.
In rape and sex related investigations, procedures involving basic evidence collection
take on additional importance.
In light of this, the success of the investigation will largely depend on the collection of
both physical and biological evidence.
In addition to the crime scene, there are two other sources of evidence; the victim and
the offender. Establishing a link between the victim, the offender, and the crime scene is of
utmost importance.
Sex offenses can be difficult to investigate because the Victim is often emotionally
distraught.
Some sex offenders are emotionally disturbed and feel no remorse for their actions.
Sadist – a person who derives sexual gratification from causing pain to others, often
through mutilation.
Page 2.
1. Bigamy
2. Child molestation
3. Incest
4. Indecent exposure
5. Prostitution
6. Rape (sexual assault)
7. Sodomy
8. Also include a wide range of forbidden sexual activity.
Forcible rape – is sexual intercourse against a person’s will by the use or threat of
force.
Statutory rape – is sexual intercourse with a minor (12 years of age and below), with
or without consent.
ASSUMPTIONS
FACTS
Intimate parts – usually refers to the primary genital area, groin, inner thighs,
buttocks and breasts.
Sexual contact – usually includes any act committed without the complainant’s
consent for the suspect’s sexual or aggressive satisfaction.
Sexual penetration – includes sexual intercourse, or any other penetration to the
victim’s body.
SEX OFFENDERS
Some sexual assault offenders are sadistic and commit physical abuses.
Others seek to control their victims through threats and physical strength.
Still others act out aggression and hatred.
Motivated by either power or anger.
The first officers to arrive can make or break a rape case depending on how they
approach the victim.
Protect the crime scene and broadcast a description of the assailant, means and
direction of flight and the time and exact location of the assault.
Scratches
Bruises or cuts
Evidence of a struggle and semen and bloodstains
Stained or torn clothing of the victim and suspect
Panty
Page 4.
OTHER EVIDENCE
Develop rapport
Communicate empathy and objectivity
Provide information about the police role and investigation
Help the victim regain control
Address concerns about prosecution
Recognize the victim’s reaction
Allow the victim to set the pace/ tone
Understand disorganized thinking
End the interview with an explanation of available victim assistance programs, such
as Sexual Offense Services (S.O.S.)
Physical
Verbal
Sexual
Mere presence
Verbal threats
Display of a weapon
Use of physical force
Did the suspect demand that the victim says certain words or demand that she beg,
plead or scream.
This information may help determine motivation.
What actions did the suspect take to protect his identity?
Cover his face with a ski mask, gloves, change his voice, blindfold the victim
This will determine experience level.
FOLLOW-UP INVESTIGATION
After the preliminary investigation and medical exam are completed the victim should
be interviewed again in 2 to 5 days.
Some victims will decide not to prosecute because of pressure from the family and
friends, fear of reprisal, shame and fear of going to court and emotional or mental
disturbance.
Page 6.
Medical personnel
Social workers
Rape crisis center personnel
News media