This Evidence Check examined the evidence around the use of photo-documentation of medical examination in child sexual assault. It looked at the extent to which photo-documentation is of medical and forensic utility, considering its impact on the child or young person’s wellbeing and the reliability of the clinical findings and legal outcomes. The review found photo-documentation is of significant utility in detecting injury and improving accuracy of diagnosis, particularly in allowing for second opinion. It also discusses legal aspects of privacy, access to and retention of photo-documentation (both of normal and of positive findings) along with the importance of quality and incorruptibility of the images.
Citation
Cossins A, Jayakody A, Norrie C, Parkinson P. 
