ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 4

The Evidence Notwithstanding—A Case Report on a Rape
Brauner, P
Forensic scientist, Forensic Biology Laboratory, Israel National Police Headquarters,

(Received 20 May 1991; accepted 6 June 1991)

Abstract

This report concerns the rape of a woman by a stranger. The complainant stated that, during the course of the rape, penetration took place without ejaculation: these details were later confirmed by a suspect. This suspect, who was identified by the complainant, confessed and was convicted.

Laboratory findings, however, indicated that the suspect could not have been the source of the semen found on the complainant's underpants. Further, a vaginal swab taken from the complainant contained intact sperm cells, an indication of a recent sexual contact.

In spite of the presence of semen on the underwear which could not have come from the suspect, and the nonoccurrence of an ejaculation during the rape, the complainant maintained that she had not had a sexual contact for a month prior to the rape. This apparent contradiction and its implications are discussed.

Keywords:
criminalistics, criminal sex offenses, privacy, rape, human rights

Paper ID: JFS13240J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13240J
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