Condom Lubricant Analysis
A few months ago, Antonio Scatena and I did a webinar on condom lubricant analysis. Condom lubricant analysis isn’t quite as mainstream as some of the other types of forensic testing, so we wanted to take this opportunity to highlight some tips to help to decide when this analysis would be helpful and how best use the evidence.
- Condom lubricant analysis should not be performed in lieu of DNA analysis. Condom lubricant analysis is a good option for a scenario where no DNA is found in a sexual assault case.
- Some lubricants are present in the body longer than others. Dry lubricants (PDMS) will stay in the body for hours longer than water-based lubricants due to the fact that PDMS will not be absorbed into the body.
- Communication is key. Any information regarding any kind of condom wrapper found at a scene, or any information from a victim regarding what kind of condom may have been used is very helpful.
- Finally, attorneys should always communicate with a scientist who may testify to condom lubricant evidence prior to a trial regarding the results of condom lubricant testing and what they mean.
For more details on condom lubricant analysis, our previous webinars are available in full for anyone who may have missed them.