Importância da palavra da vítima e consequências da condenação em casos de crimes contra a dignidade sexual.

Abstract

Crimes that affect sexual dignity often occur in a covert manner, which makes obtaining evidence beyond the victim's testimony challenging, playing a crucial role throughout the process. In this context, the main objective of this study is to evaluate whether, in itself, the victim's testimony is sufficient to support convictions in cases of crimes against sexual dignity. The research follows a qualitative approach, using the monographic research method and bibliographic technique, relying on doctrines, articles, legislation and online sources. Initially, this work examines the fundamental concepts related to sexual dignity and the crime of rape, in addition to tracing the legislative evolution of the crime of rape. Next, the different forms of evidence in the context of criminal proceedings are analyzed, addressing the principles that guide the production of evidence and the methods used to support the conviction of an accused. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis is carried out on the value attributed to the victim's testimony in rape cases, questioning whether this witness can be considered as the main evidence to support the conviction of the accused. As a result, it is concluded that the victim's testimony must be considered as the central piece in the process, although it should not be the only evidence capable of supporting the accused's conviction. In situations where there is a significant absence of evidentiary elements or when the victim's testimony is not in line with the evidence collected during the process, the most appropriate decision is the acquittal of the accused. The methodology adopted in this monograph was deductive, based on a bibliographical review, including consultation of doctrines, articles, laws and publications.