RAPE
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
All physical evidence and findings obtained during
the examination are sent to the laboratory for testing and investigation.
Once the laboratory results are available, the doctor will have to submit
his full report to the police. A copy of the medical report is also sent
to the deputy public prosecutor and the defence lawyer, if the alleged offender
has hired one.
All information obtained during the history taking and physical examination will be kept strictly confidential by the doctor and staff concerned.
The court process
Rape is a crime. The state is responsible to
ensure that criminals are prosecuted and sentenced. The Deputy Public Prosecutor
(DPP behalf of the state will prosecute against the rape offender. S/he will
decide if there is a case and if there is, it can be taken to court. The
DPP will study the corroborative evidence of the cases, that is, the doctor's
report, eye witness, direct and indirect evidence. However, if the DPP feels
that there is no strong case against the accused, the DPP can refuse to press
charges.
When giving evidence of the act of rape, the victim is entitled to request that the public gallery be cleared.
•
Rape: It's not your falut!
•
The hospital examination
• The accused: What happens
to him
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What happens next?
• Laws relating to rape
•
How to help a rape survivor
•
Book on rape:
Shame, Secrecy and Silence – Study of Rape in
Penang.