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secure evidence
To solve a crime, it is important to secure evidence. When you file a criminal complaint, you initiate an investigation with the police or the public prosecutor’s office. In particular, this means that the prosecution authorities will take care of securing evidence.
You can support the authorities with your own evidence. Immediately after the crime, it is important not to change the scene of the crime so that the police can secure the evidence.
- In the event of damage to property, take photos or call the police to secure evidence.
- In the case of physical or sexualized violence, you can document visible injuries with your own photos. It is important that you seek medical attention. A medical certificate of injuries sustained will be issued to you after an examination by a doctor.
- When preserving evidence of hate speech on the internet (especially on social media platforms and in chat groups), make sure that screenshots are complete.
secure evidence
further information on sexual violence
Talking about sexualized violence and taking action is often difficult and associated with shame for those affected. For victims of sexualized violence, it is advisable to go to the emergency room of a clinic for initial medical treatment and confidential forensic evidence. If desired, traces and injuries can be documented and secured during the medical examination.
Even if it is difficult, it is important not to shower before the examination if possible. Most traces can be secured within the first 72 hours. If knockout drops are suspected, it is important to react quickly, as many substances can no longer be detected after 6-12 hours.
A criminal complaint is not necessary for the confidential securing of evidence. Traces can be secured even if it is not yet clear whether a criminal complaint should be made to the police. As a rule, medical confidentiality applies and the police may not be informed without the express consent of the person concerned. Confidential evidence collection and archiving will give you time to decide whether to press charges
Here you can find out more about confidential evidence collection and which clinics offer it.
