“The reality of forensic medicine in the West Bank from the perspective of members of the Public Prosecution”

Abstract

Abstract:                                                                                                                                                  

This study aims to the reality of forensic medicine in the West Bank from the perspective of members of the Public Prosecution. Employing a descriptive quantitative approach and a questionnaire tool, the study draws on both primary and secondary sources. Primary data are collected through a questionnaire specifically designed for the study sample, data are gathered by reviewing existing studies and literature relevant to the subject matter. The study complex included all (152) West Bank prosecutors (based on Public Prosecution statistics, 2022), The study sample consisted of an available sampling of (55) people; with a percentage of (36.2%) of the study, population was selected through accidental sampling. The statistical software SPSS was utilized to analyze the data gathered from the sample, leading to significant findings. One key result was the high percentage (97%) of Public Prosecution members in the West Bank showing a preference for forensic medicine. Public Prosecution officials in the West Bank emphasize that determining the cause of death is a primary driver for the advancement of forensic medicine, achieving a high percentage of (92%), The findings revealed that the forensic medical team possessed significant professional expertise, with homicide being the most relevant aspect of forensic medicine according to members of the Public Prosecution in the West Bank, scoring (97.4%), followed by rape at (92.8%).

The study revealed that the primary obstacles to the implementation of forensic medicine according to the Public Prosecution in the West Bank are the lack of analysis carried out by local forensic laboratories associated with forensic medicine, resulting in the necessity to rely on laboratories in other countries, rating (83.2%). This is closely followed by the absence of government laboratories for (DNA) testing, with a rating of (82.2%). Therefore, establishing an official procedural manual for the General Directorate of Forensic Medicine, and enhancing the autonomy of the Department of Forensic Medicine are crucial steps towards effectively addressing this issue.

Keywords: Forensic Medicine, Criminal Justice, Public Prosecution, West Bank.