title: Forensic investigation of sex crimes in Colombia.
abstract: Victimization by sexual assault has become not only a public health and safety issue but a way of life for many in Colombia. Poverty, gender inequality, and a lack of family and community support contribute to the cycle of sexual violence. Ineffective medico-legal systems have added to a rate of 93% for sex crimes that go without arrest or prosecution in Bogotá, the capital. Collaborative efforts are underway between the United States and Colombian governments to change the criminal justice system and strengthen forensic investigation of sex crimes in Colombia.
authors.affiliation: International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP) Colombia, United States Department of Justice, American Embassy, Bogota, Colombia.
authors.forename: Nancy B
authors.initials: NB
authors.lastname: Cabelus
authors.forename: Gary T
authors.initials: GT
authors.lastname: Sheridan
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003105:Colombia; D005260:Female; D053604:Forensic Nursing; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation; D035846:Law Enforcement; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D011203:Poverty; D011902:Rape / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014481:United States