NCJ Number
207715
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 49 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2004 Pages: 1299-1307
Date Published
November 2004
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the equipment and procedures of a mobile system for a postmortem genital examination of a sexual assault homicide victim in accordance with the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) model.
Abstract
The sequential methodology for the evaluation of the sexual homicide victim involves obtaining salient case data; demographic data on the victim; information on the position of the body at the crime scene and the victim's health history and lifestyle; the general physical examination of the body; urine specimen, serology, and toxicology; evaluation of nongenital trauma; head and oral examination; fingernail scrapings; genital and anal examination; the colposcopic examination; the performance of labial traction; speculum examination; the collection of vaginal swabs; the genital examination of a male victim; and documentation of the genital examination. Colposcopy was chosen as the examination method because of its magnification, photo-documentation, and peer review potential. The role of the forensic nurse examiner is described within a defined scope of expertise and as a collaborative member of the homicide investigation team. A table lists the components of the mobile system, including the colposcope and camera, exam equipment, the evidence kit and supplies, and documentation. Another table indicates sites for swabs and the number and types of swabs for adults and children. 4 figures, 2 tables, and 15 references