NCJ Number
160939
Date Published
March 2000
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This guide provides pointers on the selection and use of camera equipment, film, and photographic techniques that are most appropriate for use in cases of suspected child abuse.
Abstract
Photographs that document a victim's injuries often provide key evidence in child abuse cases and convictions. To ensure effective photodocumentation, it is important to use the most appropriate camera equipment and film and to identify and investigate the child victim. Critical to all investigations of child abuse is the method of photographing injuries such as pressure injuries, bite marks, bruises, burns, facial injuries, amputations, neglect, and sexual abuse injuries. Accurate courtroom evidence can be hindered by ineffective camera equipment and film, insufficient methods of photographing the victim or the victim's injuries, misinformation regarding the photographs of the case, and mislabeling of child abuse information, including photographs. This booklet has sections on camera equipment, film, ultraviolet photography, the photographing of injuries, photodocumentation as court evidence, and photography tips. 16 supplemental readings and a list of 15 organizational resources