Sexual Assault: The Preliminary Response

“Generally, the actions and the appearance of a legitimate rape victim leave little doubt that a crime has been committed. Under such circumstances, the victim is highly agitated, emotionally distraught, often in a state of hysteria and may have sustained injuries, cuts, bruises or wounds. The victim’s clothing is often ripped or torn off as evidence that it was forcibly removed and if the rape occurred outdoors, the victim is generally thrown to the ground and her outer garments stained or soiled”

In reality, persons known to the victim commit the majority of sexual assaults reported to law enforcement and this fact affects every aspect of the investigation. A lack of understanding about the dynamics of both stranger and non-stranger sexual assault may cause a poor law enforcement response that is often interpreted as a lack of sensitivity. Sexual assault investigations are very complex and in addition to sensitivity, they require practical skills. This workshop will focus on providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to effectively respond to all forms of sexual assault. At the conclusion of the session, participants will have an understanding of the:

• Dynamics of sexual assault
• Role of the dispatcher
• Various patrol responses to sexual assault and successful investigative strategies
• Responsibilities of the first responding officer
• Types of evidence needed to establish the identity of a suspect and more frequently, to corroborate the lack of consent
• Skills needed to effectively interview victims of sexual assault
• Benefits of a multi-disciplinary response and promising practices
• Role of the advocate
• Guidelines for obtaining forensic sexual assault examinations for both victims and suspects
• Conclusions that may and may not be provided by forensic examiners