Extent necessary

Consider the extent of forensic photography necessary.  Taking photographs of patients’ anatomy that was involved in the assault should be routine in sexual assault cases. Such photographs can supplement the medical forensic history and physical findings.[1] As to the extent of photographs necessary, communities appear to take two different approaches. Some routinely take photographs, with patients’ permission, of both detected injuries and normal (apparently uninjured) anatomy involved in the assault. These jurisdictions encourage examiners to collect and document all evidence and leave the determination about the value of the evidence to litigants.[2] Other communities limit photographs to detected injuries. 
 
Involved prosecutors, law enforcement officials, examiners, and advocates should further discuss the extent of photography they view as critical, examine any related case law, consider their concerns on this issue and how to be sensitive to victims, and, ultimately, determine what strategy is right for their community. 

[1] The California Medical Protocol for Examination of Sexual Assault and Child Sexual Abuse Victims, 2001, p. 56.
[2] However, photographs should not be used to interpret subtle and/or nonspecific findings (e.g., erythema or redness) that are not noted on exam documentation. Review of photographs cannot reliably diagnose injuries not seen by examiners. 


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