A rape kit is a collection of biological and physical evidence gathered from a sexual assault victim. Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs) are trained to collect evidence and provide support to victims. The exam includes photographs, treatment for injuries, blood and urine samples, and swabs. Hospitals may collect a rape kit and keep it until the victim decides whether or not to report the crime to the police. Once reported, the kit is submitted for analysis to establish who committed the crime.
The biological and physical evidence gathered from a sexual assault victim is collectively known as a “rape kit.” The term is also used to describe a case that contains the equipment needed to carry out an examination on a rape victim. A rape victim is always allowed to refuse a rape kit and continue to receive medical care, although evidence gathering is strongly encouraged. In addition to leading police to the perpetrator, a rape kit can also argue the case in court, in the event of a trial.
Being sexually assaulted can be extremely traumatic. For this reason, many communities have Sexual Assault Response Teams (SARTs). Members of a SART receive special training in dealing with victims of assault and collecting evidence. They usually include medical personnel, law enforcement, and crisis center employees who can provide counseling, counseling, and support for victims. In general, SART representatives recommend collecting a rape kit with 72 hours of sexual assault.
An examination after a sexual assault usually begins by taking photographs of the victim and collecting her clothes. Next, medical personnel treat any emerging injuries that require treatment, documenting those injuries for the record. Blood and urine samples are taken, and swabs from the oral and genital area are also collected. Commonly, samples of the victim’s hair will be taken and a nurse will collect biological evidence that could convict the attacker, such as bodily fluids and hair. Additionally, the patient will usually be offered prophylactic treatment for STDs and pregnancy if these are concerns.
Since this exam can be tedious, it is very important to have all the necessary equipment at hand. This minimizes traffic to and from the exam room, allowing medical staff to focus on the patient’s medical and physical care. In many hospitals, there is a special room set aside for the collection of evidence in assault cases. The room may be furnished in a more friendly way and often include a private bathroom.
In many regions, a hospital may collect a rape kit and keep it while the victim decides whether or not to report the crime to the police. Privacy laws may also prevent the hospital from disclosing the victim’s name, although the hospital can report the crime to law enforcement. For patients who aren’t sure whether or not they want to prosecute, collecting and storing the rape kit is like a form of insurance.
Once reported to law enforcement, representatives of a crime lab collect the rape kit and submit its contents for analysis. Lab work can establish who committed the crime, or at least provide valuable clues. Along with other evidence in criminal cases, a rape kit is closely guarded once collected, to reduce the risk of evidence being tampered with or contaminated.
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