The value of first report statements in the investigation of rape

• Main Author: Humbulani, Vhulahani
• Other Authors: Horne, Juanida Suzette
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: Rape; Victim; Contents of first report statement; Statement; Investigation; Criminal investigation; Investigator; Information; Evidence; Intelligence and prosecution; 363.2595320968227; Criminal investigation > South Africa > Pretoria; Rape > Investigation > South Africa > Pretoria; Sex crimes > Investigation > South Africa > Pretoria
• Online Access: Humbulani, Vhulahani (2016) The value of first report statements in the investigation of rape, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/21683>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/21683

In this research, the first report statement is evaluated, in order to establish whether the information contained in the first report statement is considered during rape investigations. The researcher explored how investigators and public prosecutors utilise the first report statements in order to ensure an effective criminal justice system. The researcher made use of (a) an empirical design, because of the limited information available on the research topic, and (b) a qualitative research approach – which enabled real-life observations. Simple random sampling was used to select 28 investigators of rape and sexual offence related cases, four (4) prosecutors attached to sexual offences courts, and one (1) advocate from Gauteng North High Court. Data was obtained through interviews, a literature study, and case docket analysis. === Police Practice === M.Tech. (Forensic Investigations)