NCJ Number
228831
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 9 Dated: September 2009 Pages: 46,48-50,52,53
Date Published
September 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses how forensic medicine can provide valuable assistance in child abuse investigations.
Abstract
Investigating child abuse has some unique qualities that other investigations lack. Young children may not be able to tell what happened, and older children may be afraid to. However, physicians, especially those trained in pediatrics or forensics may be able to tell what the victim cannot. Anyone investigating child abuse cases should be educated on where this type of medical advice is available and what to do with the information when the investigation begins. Medical knowledge can provide valuable evidence that can be used to support or refute a suspect's statements. The involvement of forensic medical doctors and nurses is important from the beginning. When modern forensic medical advice is used to its fullest, a multi-disciplinary approach by police, child protective services, and prosecution can result in a successful end to the child abuse case.