Presenter Information
Kallie Crawford, M.S.
Duquesne University
Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences
Forensic Science & Law Program
Lyndsie Ferrara, Ph.D
Duquesne University
Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences
Forensic Science & Law Program
Abstract
According to the FBI, to date, there are more than 400,000 untested sexual assault kits nationwide. While this is a huge issue that cannot be solved overnight, continual improvements and changes are needed to reduce and hopefully eliminate the backlog.
This research examines work going on nationwide and aims to better understand the backlog issues specifically in Pennsylvania. Furthermore, the research examines a program utilized by the law enforcement community that garnered necessary resources. First, a comprehensive review of improved practices in proactive jurisdictions of Ohio, Houston, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan was conducted to identify general policies and procedures that could be implemented elsewhere. Next, interviews with key stakeholders identified specific issues in Pennsylvania. Based on these discussions a survey was developed to gather data related to sexual assault case practices across Pennsylvania. Finally, examination of the COPS grant program previously used by law enforcement indicates potential parallels for employing additional forensic scientists in an effort to reduce and eliminate the backlog.
Ending the backlog of untested sexual assault kits in the United States will require a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach. A deep commitment at all levels of government will require every state to have clear policies and procedures for handling sexual assault kits that will help to create a criminal justice system that holds offenders accountable and creates opportunities for healing and justice for survivors.
School
Bayer School of Natural and Environmental Sciences
Advisor
Lyndsie Ferrara
Submission Type
Paper
Publication Date
March 2018
Included in
Evidence Commons, Forensic Science and Technology Commons, Health Law and Policy Commons, Law Enforcement and Corrections Commons, Legislation Commons, Medical Jurisprudence Commons, State and Local Government Law Commons
Understanding the Sexual Assault Kit Backlog in Pennsylvania
According to the FBI, to date, there are more than 400,000 untested sexual assault kits nationwide. While this is a huge issue that cannot be solved overnight, continual improvements and changes are needed to reduce and hopefully eliminate the backlog.
This research examines work going on nationwide and aims to better understand the backlog issues specifically in Pennsylvania. Furthermore, the research examines a program utilized by the law enforcement community that garnered necessary resources. First, a comprehensive review of improved practices in proactive jurisdictions of Ohio, Houston, Texas, and Detroit, Michigan was conducted to identify general policies and procedures that could be implemented elsewhere. Next, interviews with key stakeholders identified specific issues in Pennsylvania. Based on these discussions a survey was developed to gather data related to sexual assault case practices across Pennsylvania. Finally, examination of the COPS grant program previously used by law enforcement indicates potential parallels for employing additional forensic scientists in an effort to reduce and eliminate the backlog.
Ending the backlog of untested sexual assault kits in the United States will require a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach. A deep commitment at all levels of government will require every state to have clear policies and procedures for handling sexual assault kits that will help to create a criminal justice system that holds offenders accountable and creates opportunities for healing and justice for survivors.