NCJ Number
167486
Journal
Polygraph Volume: 25 Issue: 4 Dated: (1996) Pages: 279-289
Date Published
1996
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Issues related to the polygraph examinations of sexual assault victims in Maryland between 1993 and 1996 are described, based on discussions among various organizations and the study conducted by a State task force formed by the governor.
Abstract
Polygraph testing of sex crime victims has become a controversial issue; the trend to ban polygraph testing of victims has spread nationwide. The Maryland task force surveyed all State and local police agencies and all prosecutors' offices. It concluded that the real issue was what occurred before a victim became involved in a polygraph examination, that untrained officers in small police agencies rely on the polygraph as a short cut, and that a model polygraph policy was needed. After learning the results of the survey, the Maryland Polygraph Association made additional recommendations. These related to operational procedures, certification, training, continuing education, in-service polygraph training, cost, and the certification fee. The model policy developed by the task force stated that polygraph examinations will be used in criminal investigations only when all reasonable investigative techniques have been exhausted and may be used for suspects, victims, and witnesses only when answers to questions cannot be resolved through standard investigative techniques. The task force recommended that all law enforcement agencies adopt the model policy, that Maryland enact licensing and certification legislation similar to that in Vermont, and that prosecutors receive regular training. Additional recommendations, text of model policy and procedures, and 17 references