Across the country, the rape kit backlog is making headlines. Journalists are uncovering backlogs, jurisdictions are implementing reforms to track and test rape kits and citizens are taking action. In the Media Center, you'll find the latest information about the backlog, including: commentary from the ENDTHEBACKLOG staff and backlog reformers, first-person testimonials from those impacted by the backlog, an archive of news articles, op-eds, investigative reports, legislation and government publications we've identified, and more.
THE BACKLOG BLOGMarch 6, 2014
Exciting News from the White House
For the first time, the White House has dedicated funding that will provide cities across the country with the vital resources they need to help end the nationwide rape kit backlog.
THE BACKLOG BLOGFebruary 24, 2014
End to Rape Kit Backlog Will Serve Healing
Memphis has made a commitment to address and eliminate the city’s backlog of untested sexual assault kits. And they're not alone in their efforts to tackle the backlog.
THE BACKLOG BLOGFebruary 21, 2014
Guest Post: Taking a Holistic Approach to Ending Houston's Backlog
A problem-solving approach that involves multiple stakeholder groups can be very effective.
THE BACKLOG BLOGFebruary 4, 2014
Between the Cracks: Testing Past the Statute of Limitations
Even then, it can solve and prevent crimes.
ENDTHEBACKLOGJanuary 31, 2014
Progress Ahead as More States Consider Proactive Rape Kit Reforms
As states across the country have opened their legislative sessions since the start of the new year, ENDTHEBACKLOG has been watching closely for rape kit reforms. Starting in 2010, the legislatures in Illinois, Texas and Colorado blazed the trail for mandating the testing of all rape kits booked into police evidence. Other states are beginning to follow their lead to varying degrees.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJanuary 28, 2014
Considering the Rape Kit Backlog in Ohio
As NPR reported this week, "rape kits give evidence to victims' stories." Law enforcement must count, track and test the kits in their evidence rooms—they must believe and honor survivors' decisions to participate in the criminal justice process.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJanuary 23, 2014
The White House Report: A Commitment, a Call to Action and a Look at the Work that Remains
Yesterday's report on sexual assault from the White House demonstrates the Administration's deep commitment to ending sexual violence and improving the responses of our government, our criminal justice system, our schools and our communities, but also identifies that there is still a great deal of work to be done.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJanuary 22, 2014
Rape Kit Backlogs Discovered in Utah
Earlier this month, The Salt Lake Tribune reported backlogs in several jurisdictions in Utah and at the state crime lab.
