Abstract

Semen is typically regarded as admissible evidence in prosecutions of sexual assault. Sperm detection is evidence of semen, albeit it’s not always possible to find sperm. Semen biomarkers include semenogelin (Sg) and prostate specific antigen (PSA). From the time of the assault until the specimen was collected, we compared the detection rate and permanence of sperm, PSA, and Sg. Sperm had the longest persistence and the highest detection rate, according to the data. Regardless of whether the sperm test was positive or negative, the overall detection rate of the Sg test was much higher than that of the PSA test. In conclusion, the first test that should be performed should be the detection of sperm; if sperm is not found, the Sg test is more important. Better than the PSA test, it can be applied for up to 72 hours following an assault.

Introduction

Semen detection is essential for gathering evidence in forensic situations, primarily involving sexual assault or abuse. Sperm and semen detection is necessary, even in circumstances when their quantity is tiny, due to the daily rise in rape cases. We must accurately identify these stains, regardless of how old the spots or stains are. Given that the most trustworthy evidence of sperm or semen is found at the crime scene, Semen detection is a crucial component in verifying sexual assaults and serves as a marker for the investigation of instances including rape, sodomy, bestiality, and sexual murder[1].Theseminal plasma, which is a combination of secretions from male accessory reproductive organs such as the prostate, bulbourethral, urethral, epididymis, and seminal vesicles, is one of the two main components of semen [2].Ascorbic acid, lactic acid, fructose, and citric acid are all present in seminal plasma [2, 3].Typically, seminal stains can be found in: a) clothing, undergarments, towels, bed linens, carpets, and pillowcases. b) Body: pubic hair, thighs, vagina, and perineum. etc.),c) crime scene: on the ground or in a grassy area.The quick blue test for acid phosphatase was one of the tests used to identify semen[4].Prostate specific antigen (PSA) can be found by the PSA, P30 card test, and microscopic identification of spermatozoa.

Using a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) kit to detect semen on the undergarments of women implicated in sexual assaults can have significant implications for both medicine and law. Here are some key points:

1. *Medical Implications*:

– *Accurate Detection*: PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland and is found in high concentrations in semen. Using a PSA kit can provide a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting the presence of semen on undergarments.

– *Timely Evidence Collection*: Swift and accurate detection of semen can aid in the timely collection of forensic evidence, which is crucial for preserving the integrity of the evidence in sexual assault cases.

– *Support for Victims*: It can provide concrete evidence to support victims of sexual assault, potentially helping them receive appropriate medical care and psychological support.

2. *Legal Implications*:

– *Corroborating Evidence*: PSA testing can serve as corroborative evidence in sexual assault cases. When semen is found on a victim’s undergarments and matches the DNA of the accused, it can strengthen the case against the perpetrator.

– *Establishing Consent*: In cases where consent is in question, the presence of semen on the victim’s undergarments can be used to establish that sexual contact occurred.

– *Expert Testimony*: Forensic experts may be called upon to testify about the use of PSA kits and the significance of their findings in court.

3. *Challenges and Considerations*:

– *Consent for Testing*: Obtaining consent from the victim to conduct PSA testing is essential and should be done with care, respecting the survivor’s autonomy.

– *Chain of Custody*: Proper chain of custody procedures must be followed to ensure the integrity of the evidence.

– *False Positives and Negatives*: While PSA testing is highly specific, false positives and negatives can occur. These should be considered during the legal proceedings.

Conclusion

The use of PSA kits for detecting semen in sexual assault cases has the potential to provide valuable evidence in both the medical and legal realms, aiding in the pursuit of justice while ensuring the rights and well-being of the survivors are respected. It’s important that such testing is conducted professionally and ethically to maintain the integrity of the evidence and legal process.

Author:

Bhumi Jain

B. Sc. Forensic Science

3^rd Sem. 2^nd Year

Mangalayatan University

Jabalpur (M.P)