From the Guidelines
A rape kit can be collected up to 72 hours (3 days) after a sexual assault, and in some cases, evidence may still be collected up to 7 days after the incident, as DNA-amplification techniques can identify foreign DNA for at least 4 days after the assault and possibly longer 1. When considering getting a rape kit, it is essential to try not to shower, bathe, douche, change clothes, comb hair, clean fingernails, or use the bathroom if possible, as these actions may wash away evidence. Some key points to consider:
- The sooner the evidence is collected, the more likely it will yield useful DNA and other forensic evidence.
- Even if you've showered or changed clothes, evidence may still be collected.
- Trained medical professionals will collect samples from your body, clothing, and personal items, document injuries, and offer preventive treatment for STIs and emergency contraception.
- The examination typically takes 2-4 hours.
- Many hospitals have sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) specially trained to perform these exams with sensitivity and care.
- With DNA-amplification techniques, a forensic examination can be useful for at least 4 days after the assault and possibly longer, and between 4 and 7 days, local authorities should be contacted to determine if it is useful to collect evidence 1.
- A more recent study also supports the idea that a forensic examination may identify foreign DNA for at least 72 hours after an assault 1.
From the Research
Time Frame for Obtaining a Rape Kit
- The time frame for obtaining a rape kit is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is generally recommended that a rape kit be collected as soon as possible after a sexual assault, ideally within 72 to 96 hours 4.
- The collection of evidence is typically done by a medical professional, such as a nurse or doctor, who has received specialized training in collecting and preserving forensic evidence 4.
- The rape kit is used to collect physical evidence, such as DNA, from the victim's body, which can be used to aid in the investigation and prosecution of the crime 2.
Importance of Prompt Collection
- Prompt collection of the rape kit is important because DNA evidence can degrade over time, making it more difficult to obtain a match 2.
- Additionally, the sooner the rape kit is collected, the more likely it is that the evidence will be usable in court 4.
- It is also important to note that the decision to collect a rape kit should be made by the victim, and they should be fully informed of the process and the potential uses of the evidence 4.
Variations in Collection Time
- While 72 to 96 hours is the generally recommended time frame for collecting a rape kit, some studies suggest that DNA evidence can still be collected and used effectively even after this time period 5.
- However, the quality and usability of the evidence may decrease over time, making it more difficult to obtain a conviction 2.