Chapter 4 - The First Investigative Response

Abstract

This chapter presents various ways to help investigators prepare for the moment when they are first notified that a sex crime has been reported and that their assistance is required. The knowledge, capabilities, confidence, and decisions brought to bear during the initial response will dictate the depth and competence of any work that follows. It is found that some investigators have been trained inappropriately to think that physical evidence is their enemy because it might contradict the statements of the victim. The primary responsibilities of the sex crime detective, when responding to a criminal complaint, include determining what happened, and identifying and arresting any criminal perpetrators. The sex crime investigators should be thinking about and preparing for trial from the moment that initial notification is received. The information crucial for effectively processing the scene and recovering everything of value from it the first time includes exact location of the alleged assault, and items used during the attack by victim and offender. It is suggested that investigators know their people and the location where physical evidence is sent to be examined by forensic scientists.