This training bulletin addresses a question that is commonly asked by law enforcement investigators: Do I need to get a sworn statement from the victim at the conclusion of an interview? This training bulletin concludes that a sworn statement is not needed from victims or witnesses, because there is no clear advantage yet several critical disadvantages.

This training bulletin provides a basic introduction to the role of direct examination with an investigating officer (IO) during a sexual assault trial. Discussion focuses on how to best utilize testimony from the investigating officer, including offering the investigating officer’s testimony as an expert witness.

This training bulletin examines what the evidence produced from a trauma-informed interview of a sexual assault victim can (and cannot) accomplish within the US legal system, and how this evidence should (and should not) be used in a sexual assault investigation and prosecution.

This training bulletin provides basic information about the brain and explores the impact of trauma on behavior and memory. It then highlights the implications for law enforcement interviews conducted with victims of sexual assault and other traumatic crimes.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, law enforcement officers are using innovative tactics to connect with victims for investigations and to ensure they get the support they need. Although there are some concerns about the privacy and security of virtual meeting platforms, we believe the technology is worth exploring. In this training bulletin, we outline several steps that can be taken to mitigate any risks that might compromise a survivor’s safety and well-being.

This training bulletin, co-authored by EVAWI and SDFI – TeleMedicine, is designed to provide forensic examiners, investigators, and prosecutors with helpful information that can be used to improve forensic documentation. Caution: Some of the photographs included in this bulletin are graphic in nature.

This training bulletin briefly reviews the forensic compliance provisions of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), with specific emphasis on issues raised in the 2013 reauthorization (VAWA 2013). States and territories were required to certify compliance with VAWA 2013 by March 2016.

This training bulletin was written to respond to the question of whether victims should be allowed to sleep before conducting a medical forensic examination or detailed law enforcement interview. Several concrete suggestions are offered to help meet the needs of victims when they are intoxicated and/or want to sleep.