Citation

Kettrey HH, Davis AJ, Liberman J, Seeman A. Justice Q. 2023; 40(3): 385-402.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07418825.2022.2058986

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This study examined indirect effects of sexual assault medical forensic exams (SAMFEs) on suspect arrest, through their effect on criminal justice professionals' reports of victim cooperation during case investigation and processing. Using a sample of 413 sexual assault case files, we utilized path analysis to model the direct effect of SAMFEs on arrest as well as indirect effects through reports of victim cooperation with law enforcement and prosecution. Cases in which the victim participated in a SAMFE exhibited greater probability of reports that the victim cooperated with law enforcement and prosecution. These reports were, in turn, associated with greater probability of suspect arrest. The direct path between SAMFE participation and suspect arrest was not significant.

FINDINGS indicate participation in a SAMFE does not have a direct effect on arrest, but does have an indirect effect on arrest by serving as an indicator of victim cooperation to criminal justice professionals.

Language: en

Keywords

arrest; focal concerns theory; justice gap; Sexual assault medical forensic exam; victim cooperation