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 END THE BACKLOG 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.
EndTheBacklogMarch 16, 2017
Guest Post: My Journey from Survivor to Survivor Advocate
Survivor advocate Michelle Kuiper is a powerful advocate for rape kit reform in Kentucky and across the country. Here, she shares her journey and provides useful advocacy tips for survivors who want to take action.
EndTheBacklogMarch 8, 2017
Joyful Heart Foundation: Utah is a Model of Bipartisan Cooperation on Rape Kit Reform
H.B. 200, which has now passed both houses of the Utah state legislature, mandates the testing of all rape kits, requires annual reporting on the processing of rape kits, and authorizes the development of a statewide kit tracking system with a victim portal.
EndTheBacklogFebruary 21, 2017
The Accountability Project Uncovers Over 1,000 Additional Untested Rape Kits
Earlier this month, Joyful Heart released records acquired from 11 new jurisdictions through The Accountability Project. Using public records requests, we have uncovered more than 34,000 untested rape kits to date.
EndTheBacklogFebruary 16, 2017
24 States Introduce Rape Kit Reform Bills
Most states around the country kicked off their legislative sessions last month, and we have already seen a unprecedented flurry of legislative activity to end the backlog: 47 rape kit reform bills have been introduced across 24 states.
EndTheBacklogFebruary 15, 2017
Guest Post: California Expands Rapid DNA Analysis System
In this End The Backlog exclusive, the California Department of Justice Jan Bashinski DNA Laboratory outlines the advantages of the Rapid DNA Service (RADS) system, which is now being expanded across the state.
EndTheBacklogJanuary 23, 2017
No testing, no pattern. Serial rapist connected to seven assaults in Dallas.
At least seven sexual assaults in Dallas have been connected to one man, Joseph Beaty. Although the first known assault occurred in 2009, and a rape kit was collected, Beaty is only now being prosecuted for his crimes.
EndTheBacklogJanuary 23, 2017
Changing the Culture: Voices on Rape Kit Reform in Kentucky
Last week, we were able to sit down for a conversation with State Senator Denise Harper Angel and Michelle Kuiper, two extraordinary leaders in the rape kit reform effort in Kentucky.
