Identification, Corroboration, and Charging: Examining the Use of DNA Evidence by Prosecutors in Sexual Assault Cases. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Henry, Tri Keah S.; Jurek, Alicia L.
• Is Part Of: Feminist criminology. Volume 15:Number 5(2020)
• Page Start: 634
• Page End: 658
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: prosecutors -- sexual assault -- DNA -- qualitative research -- case processing -- discretionary decision-making; Feminist criminology -- Periodicals; Female offenders -- Periodicals; 364.37405
• DOI: 10.1177/1557085120940795
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1557-0851

Abstract

This study examines the influence of DNA evidence on prosecutorial decisions in sexual assault cases. Thirty-eight prosecutors experienced with prosecuting sexual violence cases were surveyed regarding the use of biological evidence in sexual assault cases, including the ways in which it is generally used, the cases in which it is most critical to have, and factors impacting case attrition. Results indicate that prosecutors perceive DNA evidence to be extremely valuable in prosecuting sexual assault cases. Several themes related to the perspective, context, process, and conditions under which DNA evidence plays a vital role in sexual assault case processing are identified.