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.
END THE BACKLOGSeptember 20, 2016
The Honolulu Star Advertiser: Police miss deadline on rape kits
All four of Hawaii’s county police departments have failed to comply with the Sept. 1 deadline.
END THE BACKLOGAugust 18, 2016
U.S. DOJ Finds Baltimore Police Failed Sexual Assault Survivors
In a report released this month, the U.S. Department of Justice criticized the Baltimore Police Department for violating the constitutional and legal rights of Baltimore residents.
END THE BACKLOGAugust 17, 2016
Remembering Lauren Smith's Passion for Justice
We all like to think we are motivated by a desire to do good and to see justice be done. Our friend Lauren Smith - sadly departed from us last December, too soon - spent her time every day trying to make that kind of difference in the world.
END THE BACKLOGJuly 27, 2016
The Ohio Supreme Court Just Delivered a Major Ruling Affecting Survivors and the Rape Kit Backlog
Today, the Ohio Supreme Court ensures a path to justice and healing remains open for survivors affected by the rape kit backlog.
END THE BACKLOGJune 29, 2016
New External Resources
A summary of new resources on the rape kit backlog now available.
END THE BACKLOGApril 6, 2016
Joyful Heart Foundation's New Study on Victim Notification
“Navigating Notification” includes years of research, best practices, and lessons learned.
END THE BACKLOGApril 6, 2016
Victim Notification Best Practices: Why They Matter
The majority of sexual assault and victims’ rights organizations around the United States support universal testing of rape kits. They have spoken for themselves, and we must now listen. What happens next?
END THE BACKLOGMarch 28, 2016
How Journalists Reporting on the Rape Kit Backlog Deal with Vicarious Trauma
We read hundreds of rape reports—women whose rape kits had been collected with care and then shelved for decades. Their stories stick with us.
