What shall we never submit the victim of a sexual assault to?

• A. A polygraph
• B. A lie detector
• C. A medical exam
• D. A background check

Answer: (A)

Subjecting a sexual assault victim to a polygraph is not appropriate. The polygraph, or lie detector, is not a reliable measure of truth and its results are not admissible in most courts. Requiring a victim to undergo this testing can be traumatic and retraumatizing, and it adds little or no valid value to the investigation. In contrast, a medical exam is essential for documenting injuries, collecting evidence, and supporting the victim's health. A background check is not relevant to the immediate handling of a sexual assault case. Remember, the terms polygraph and lie detector refer to the same device, and the policy is to avoid using it on victims.