National Guidelines on Management of Sexual Violence in Kenya

Note:
• All tests and results should be recorded in a laboratory rape register that
should contain information on: name, registration number, date, age, sex,
investigations done, results and a place for anyone who takes specimen to
sign in order to maintain a chain of custody of evidence. The Laboratory rape
register should be kept well locked away and only accessible to authorized
health facility personnel as a measure towards preserving confidentiality.
• The above tests can be carried out on the survivor and also on the perpetrator.
• With regard to the perpetrator, the court can under section 26(2) and 36 of the
SOA, order that certain specific samples be collected.
Document collection: It is good practice to compile an itemized list in the
survivor’s medical notes or reports of all specimens collected and details of
when, and to whom, they were transferred.
Handling Exhibits
• Exhibits should not be exposed to direct light and sunshine. If wet, exhibits
are dried under shade or dark rooms;
• Exhibits should be marked properly and signed for immediately upon
receipt and stored;
• All exhibits including documents filled (e.g. PRC, P3) must be kept in places
that guarantee safety and confidentiality.
4. Chain of Custody of Evidence
4.1 Chain of Evidence
This refers to the process of obtaining, preserving and conveying evidence
through accountable tracking mechanisms from the community, health facility
and finally to the police. Also refers to a paper trail where the movement of
evidence is traceable through the different persons in the chain of sample
collection, analysis, investigation and litigation)
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