Timescales for Forensic Evidence after a

Rape/Sexual Assault

 

We are informed by the Police that the following forensic evidence will remain in the body, after a sexual assault, for the following lengths of time:

 

 

1.   DNA from fingers in vagina - up to 9 hours

2.   DNA from a penis – most likely to obtain a profile

           from the victim within the first 12 hours

3.   DNA from skin to skin contact (eg on bruises, or from kissing) -

      can be detected up to 24 hours

4.   Fingernail scrapings 2 days

     5.  Oral (saliva and mouth swabs) – 2 days

     6.  Lubricant from a condom – up to 30 hours

     7.  Anal – up to 3 days

     8.  Vaginal – up to 7 days

     9.  Fibres of anything put on the head can last up to 7 days

    10. Semen remains indefinitely on clothing

 

Contact Lifecentre: SUST

…support for unwanted sexual trauma

01243-786349

 

for any patients who have suffered rape/sexual abuse

(recent or historic) and need:

·       psychological/emotional support

·       help in thinking through whether to report to the police

·       support in going to the police

·        for people needing help in supporting a victim of sexual trauma eg parents/partners