PHYSICAL EVIDENCE MANUAL - Crime Scene Investigator Network

Physical Evidence Manual
Semen Evidence
When the perpetrator of a sexual offense is a male, semen stains may be found
on the victim as well as on clothing, bedding, rags, upholstery and other objects.
Collecting Semen Evidence
Carefully recover all suspected stained material. Each item of evidence should
be packaged separately and carefully to prevent loss of any trace evidence that
may be present.
Air-dry all damp stains. Consider marking the location of a damp stain on the
evidence itself, as it may not be visible when dry.
Clean paper should be spread under the item to catch any debris, which may be
dislodged during the drying process, and between items hanging next to each
other to prevent cross contamination. Package each item separately in paper
bags or envelopes, along with any paper used.
If the semen stain is on an object that cannot be easily submitted to the
laboratory, contact your local laboratory for instructions on how to recover the
stain.
Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) Kits
Biological evidence associated with the body of a sexual assault victim needs
special attention. The victim needs to be transported to a medical facility for a
sexual assault examination. This should be done as expeditiously as possible in
order to preserve what remains of the biological evidence and to document any
physical trauma. Consider having photographs taken of any physical trauma, as
well. Attending medical personnel should collect the appropriate evidence by
using the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Kit provided to them by the
Forensic Services Division.
In general, if more than 72 hours has elapsed from the time of the sexual assault
to the time of the medical examination, the chances of finding semen evidence in
the body of a living victim are greatly diminished. However, it may be prudent to
collect a sexual assault kit if you have any doubts or concerns. Some guidelines
go out to 84 hours for the collection of this type of evidence. This time range
does not apply to deceased victims; it is recommended that you collected a
sexual assault evidence kit from deceased victims regardless of the elapse time.
Bathing, showering, and douching by the victim does not necessarily eliminate
the possibility of finding semen evidence in body cavities, so collect a sexual
assault kit even under these circumstances. Showering or bathing may, however,
Adopted: May 2002
Revisions: 6
Last Revision: January 31, 2008
6-5