TCA 39-13-507
Prohibited uses of sexual assault forensic evidence
MISDEMEANORMisdemeanor
What does this charge mean?
Evidence collected from a sexual assault victim cannot be used to prosecute that victim for misdemeanors or certain sex crimes, and cannot be used to search for evidence of unrelated misdemeanors or sex crimes the victim may have committed. This rule protects sexual assault victims from having evidence used against them in criminal cases.
Penalty Details
ClassificationMisdemeanor
Penalty SummaryMisdemeanor
Sexual assault forensic evidence obtained pursuant to § 39-13-519 may not be used: (1) To prosecute a sexual assault victim for any misdemeanor offense or any offense defined under title 39, chapter 17, part 4; or (2) As a basis to search for further evidence of any unrelated misdemeanor offense or any offense defined under title 39, chapter 17, part 4, that may have been committed by the sexual assault victim.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR
TCA Section39-13-507