A year after USA TODAY investigation, rape kit backlog persists

A Justice Department report urges police to address DNA evidence from unsolved rape cases, responding to a USA TODAY investigation that uncovered widespread inaction. The Sexual Assault Kit Initiative has distributed nearly $350 million since 2015, yet many rape kits remain untested, and thousands of DNA matches go unaddressed. The report calls for agencies to develop written policies detailing their responsibilities when evidence from untested kits matches profiles in the national DNA database, CODIS. In Louisiana, over 2,400 crimes, including sexual assaults, remain unsolved due to a lack of follow-up on DNA evidence. Senator Beth Mizell emphasized that prosecuting offenders is crucial for delivering justice to survivors.

The report highlights that DNA matches are often overlooked, leading to cases being shelved or ignored entirely. Recommendations include ensuring notifications are internet-based and accessible, as well as setting time frames for investigations. Without multiple layers of accountability, the report warns that valuable DNA matches may continue to be missed.