Examination_of_Sexual_Assault_Victim_Presentation.pptx

Examination of the Victim in an Alleged Sexual Assault Case and preservation and dispatch of trace evidence ppt

1. Examination of the Victim in an Alleged Sexual Assault Case Preparation of the Medico-Legal Report (MLR) & Handling of Trace Evidence Presenter: [ Dr. Roshan Vyasabhat ] Date: October 14, 2025

2. Introduction & Objectives Introduction The medical examination of a victim of alleged sexual assault is a critical procedure with two primary goals: • To provide comprehensive and compassionate medical care. • To collect, document, and preserve medico-legal evidence. Objectives: • Understand guiding principles. • Outline systematic steps. • Detail evidence collection. • Explain MLR preparation. • Review FSL dispatch procedure.

3. Guiding Principles: The 4 C's • Consent – Informed, written consent must be obtained. • Compassion & Care – Approach with empathy and privacy. • Confidentiality – Maintain strict confidentiality. • Chain of Custody – Maintain unbroken documentation of evidence.

4. The Medico-Legal Examination: Preliminaries Who: Registered medical practitioner (preferably female for female victim). When: As soon as possible after incident. Prerequisites: • Police requisition (from Sub-Inspector or above) • Identification marks (two) • Informed consent (mandatory).

5. Step 1 - Detailed History Taking Incident History: • Date/time/place, assailants, acts, use of condoms or objects. Post-Incident: • Bathing, changing clothes, urination, etc. Medical History: • LMP, obstetric, illnesses.

6. Step 2 - General Physical Examination • Record emotional state. • Document clothing (torn, stained, disheveled). • Pack clothing separately in paper bags. • Note all injuries using a body chart. • Photograph with scale reference.

7. Step 3 - Local (Genito-Anal) Examination • Position: Lithotomy. • Inspect for matting, stains, foreign material, injuries. • Hymen: Describe tears (location, fresh/old). • Vaginal exam: Use water-moistened speculum; collect swabs. • Anal exam: Look for injuries; collect swabs if history present.

8. Step 4 - Evidence Collection (SAECK Kit) • Clothing – Air-dry; pack separately. • Vaginal/Cervical Swabs – Air-dry before sealing. • Anal/Oral Swabs – If history supports. • Fingernail scrapings – Each hand separately. • Pubic/Head hair – Comb/pull samples. • Blood/Urine/Saliva – For DNA, toxicology.

9. Step 5 - Preparation of the Medico-Legal Report (MLR) Include: • Preamble – Victim, police details. • Consent clause. • Identification marks. • History summary. • General and Local findings. • List of samples. • Opinion – Describe findings, avoid legal conclusions.

10. Step 6 - Preservation & Dispatch of Evidence • Use paper bags/envelopes for biologicals. • Label each item with case details. • Seal with unique wax seal and doctor’s signature. • Forwarding letter to FSL with case summary and questions. • Handover to police constable with signed receipt.

11. Post-Examination Care • Provide treatment for injuries. • Prophylaxis for STIs; emergency contraception. • Offer psychological support and counseling. • Arrange follow-up for well-being.

12. Summary & Key Takeaways • Victim first. • Consent is mandatory. • Documentation is crucial. • Maintain chain of custody. • Provide medical, not legal opinion. • Work with a multidisciplinary team.

13. Thank You & Questions Thank You Any Questions?