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 BLOGJuly 16, 2014
Guest Post: Survivor-Inspired Prosecution
There is no justice that is indefinitely delayed.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJuly 9, 2014
Cold Case Convictions: Rape Kit Testing Leads to Convictions Decades Later
Our new series, Cold Case Convictions, begins, highlighting the consequences in allowing rape kits to remain untested, as well as the value DNA evidence has for bringing justice to victims of sexual assault.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJuly 2, 2014
Spotlight on Memphis: Updates on the City’s Backlog
This summer has brought more news from Memphis, including developments with a federal lawsuit facing the city and the city’s investigation into the causes of its rape kit backlog.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJune 25, 2014
Meet our Intern: Jackie Katz
Working on the ENDTHEBACKLOG project this summer has already allowed me to understand how multiple forces—the law, advocacy groups, local police stations, crime labs—all work to shape the effectiveness of the legal system in bringing justice to victims of sexual assault.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJune 18, 2014
Salt Lake City Takes Initiative to End its Backlog
The Salt Lake City Police Department recently launched the “Code R Kit Project” to review the more than 700 untested rape kits in its custody, the oldest kit being from 1987.
THE BACKLOG BLOGJune 10, 2014
Featured Reformer: Keli Rabon
Keli Rabon is an investigative reporter with Call7News in Denver, Colorado. Her work to uncover rape kit backlogs in both Denver and Memphis has led to policy changes, and has earned Keli numerous awards. ENDTHEBACKLOG spoke with her.
ENDTHEBACKLOGJune 5, 2014
Senate Continues Landmark Reforms | TAKE ACTION
This morning, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved $41 million in its FY2015 Commerce, Justice and Science spending bill to address the rape kit backlog.
ENDTHEBACKLOGJune 4, 2014
Senate Committee Appropriates $41m for Rape Kit Reform
This new initiative will enable communities to develop a thorough approach to rape kit testing, investigation and prosecution of sexual violence, training for law enforcement and services for survivors.
