Adult Sexual Assault Flashcards
ASA 12 Key Process Points
Initial Contact Case Referral Providing Specialist Support Preliminary Interview Information Feedback Medical Examination Formal Interview Investigation and Evidence Assessment Resolution Options Prosecution Final Actions and record Keeping Preventative Opportunities and Responsibilities
Primary purpose of Medical Examination
The primary purpose of the medical examination is to ensure the well-being and safety of the victim
Information to medical practitioners
Age and gender of the victim
When the sexual assault is believed to have occurred
Brief outline of info known; drugs involved, victim’s details, other health concerns
Debriefing of medical practitioners
Any immediate needs of victim
Verbally summarise exhibits and importance
Identify any forensic items that may need to be taken to ESR asap
Identify injuries to be photographed (non-intimate)
Identify any significant disclosures made by the victim during exam
Information feedback to victims
Specialist support available
Info about police investigation
Realistic timing expectations; initial action, formal interview, court process
Post preliminary interview considerations
Re-assess investigation
Public safety and likelihood of further offending
Need to secure and preserve fragile or diminishing evidence
Secure and contain scene
Identifying and locating witnesses
Detecting and apprehending suspect
Specialist crisis support response
To be provided by a specially trained person, group or agency
Front counter immediate action
Ensure victim is moved to a place that will provide safety, privacy, comfort and be evidentially neutral
ASA timing categories
Acute - 1 to 7 days
Non-acute - 7 days to 6 months
Historic
Purpose of ASA preliminary interview
Gain better understanding of what has occurred
What further actions are necessary
Whether an offence has occurred and whether victim wants to make a formal complaint
Trace evidence preservation
Victim should refrain from: Eating or drinking Going to the toilet - if necessary capture urine and ask them not to wipe Washing and showering Washing hands or biting nails Changing clothing Smoking Brushing or combing hair Brushing teeth or rinsing mouth
