Nikitina-Dudikova A. Theoretical and practical background of forensic methodology used to investigate criminal offenses against children’s sexual freedom and sexual inviolability

Thesis presents formulation of holistic forensic methodology used to investigate criminal offenses against children’s sexual freedom and sexual inviolability. The following tasks are performed: theoretical, legal, praxeological, methodological background of forensic methodology are defined. Forensic characteristics of criminal offenses are formulated based on its structural elements. Organizational and tactical concepts of criminal offense investigation are identified. Ways to improve forensic methodology for investigation of criminal offenses against children’s sexual freedom and sexual inviolability are offered. The research resulted in development of forensic methodology for investigation of criminal offenses against sexual freedom and sexual inviolability of children, which is identified as complex (interspecific) forensic methods and is based on criminal law (in accordance with Chapter IV of the Criminal Code of Ukraine "Criminal offenses against sexual freedom and sexual inviolability of a person") and significant forensic criteria (methods of preparation, commission and concealment of a criminal offense, traces and environment, identity of abused child and the offender).