Forensic and Medico-Legal Aspects of Sodomy: Forensic Evidence and Case Documentation — A Pediatric Case Study

Abstract

Sodomy allegations involving children require structured medico-legal documentation, timely evidence recovery, and strict chain-of-custody handling to support legal adjudication. This descriptive medico-legal forensic case study reports the documentation pathway, specimen collection, and evidence handling in an alleged case of anal/oral sexual assault involving an eight-year-old male child in Punjab, Pakistan. The medico-legal examination was conducted approximately two days after the alleged incident. A localized tear mark at the 12 o’clock position with marked hyperemia was documented, while other injuries (bruises, abrasions, bleeding, bite marks) and visible seminal staining were absent. Evidence collection included nail swabs and buccal swabs during crime scene processing and oral and anal swabs (external, middle, internal) during medico-legal examination. Evidence integrity was maintained through sealed packaging, documented handover to the investigating officer, and submission to the Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA), where Evidence Receiving Unit (ERU) procedures included seal verification, registration, and coding prior to laboratory processing. The case progressed through legal channels under relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code. Key challenges included delayed examination potentially reducing biological evidence yield, minimal physical injury despite allegation, and the need for pediatric trauma-informed protocols. The case demonstrates that absence of extensive anorectal injury does not negate assault allegations and underscores the importance of comprehensive evidence collection, multidisciplinary coordination, standardized pediatric protocols, and digital evidence tracking systems