Use of Forensic Science in Investigating Crimes of Sexual Violence: Contrasting Its Theoretical Potential With Empirical Realities

• NCJ Number: 239276
• Author(s): Debra Baskin, Donald Johnson, Joseph Peterson, Ira Sommers
• Date Published: February 2012
• Length: 30 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Award: The Role and Impact of Forensic Evidence on the Criminal Justice Process

Annotation

This article contrasts the theoretical potential of modern forensic science techniques in the investigation of sexual violence cases.

Abstract

This article contrasts the theoretical potential of modern forensic science techniques in the investigation of sexual violence cases with empirical research that has assessed the role played by scientific evidence in the criminal justice processing of sexual assault cases. First, the potential of forensic scientific procedures (including DNA testing) are outlined and the sexual assault literature that examines the importance of physical and forensic evidence in resolving such cases is reviewed. Then, empirical data from a recent National Institute of Justice (NIJ) study of 602 rapes are presented that describe the forensic evidence collected and examined in such cases and its impact on decisions to arrest, prosecute, adjudicate, and sentence defendants. The article closes with a discussion of research and policy recommendations to enhance the role played by forensic science evidence in sexual assault investigations. (Published Abstract)