Confidential Evidence Collection Following a Violent Crime

In confidential evidence collection (VSS)—often referred to as “anonymous evidence collection (ASS)”—traces of injuries resulting from acts of physical and sexual violence are medically documented and preserved anonymously. The examination is conducted by trained medical personnel in clinics and medical practices designated for this purpose.

The evidence collection is free of charge and does not require a criminal complaint.

An examination should take place immediately after the violent incident. Biological evidence and tissue are often detectable for only about 48–72 hours.

Immediately after the incident (if possible):

• Do not wash or shower
• Do not clean your clothes
• If possible, store the clothing you were wearing in a paper bag or cardboard box and bring it with you for examination
  • Plastic bags pose a risk of mold growth.

You may bring a trusted person with you for the examination.

What happens after evidence is collected?

The collected evidence and medical documentation are stored in encrypted form. The affected person receives a numerical code for this purpose, as well as information regarding the applicable retention period.

If a criminal complaint is filed at a later date, this numerical code can be referenced. Only the affected person decides whether and when the data will be released for a criminal complaint.

If no criminal complaint is filed within the retention period, the stored data will be deleted.

Where is confidential evidence collection available?

The NRW Victim Protection Portal provides an overview of participating hospitals and medical practices in North Rhine-Westphalia. Confidential evidence collection is expected to be offered at Klinikum Dortmund starting in 2027.

“Confidential” means: The examination takes place within the healthcare system. Medical staff are bound by professional confidentiality.

Prof. Dr. Sibylle Banaschak, head of the Forensic Medicine Outpatient Clinic at the University Hospital of Cologne, describes the importance of confidentiality in the context of the “Violence Against Women” helpline:

“This is because it involves a thoroughly confidential procedure within the healthcare system, where one can rely on the duty of confidentiality.”

Source: Prof. Dr. Sibylle Banaschak on the “Violence Against Women” helpline: “Anonymous Evidence Collection,” 2024.

Confidential counseling in cases of sexual violence and discrimination at TU Dortmund University: