You may have heard that the rape kit “backlog” exists because of a lack of resources.

But since 2004, the federal government has passed two laws and spent over $1 billion in the name of testing “backlogged” DNA evidence.

Here are some documents associated with these resources.

 

DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

DNA Backlog Reduction Program

Forensic DNA Backlog Reduction Program

Convicted Offender/Arrestee DNA Backlog Reduction Program

DNA Laboratory Efficiency Program

Forensic Casework DNA Backlog Reduction Program

DNA Capacity Enhancement Program

People for the Enforcement of Rape Laws is a program of the Mid-South Peace and Justice Center to monitor law enforcement responses to sexual violence.  Our goal is to end the law enforcement and political practices that effectively decriminalize sexual violence.   To this end, we connect victims with information about their rights and equip individuals with tools to advocate for themselves and others and advocate for fair criminal justice policies.  We urge you to learn more about America’s hidden rape crisis, where it has been exposed, and why it matters.  We invite you to take action and support our efforts to make sure law enforcement takes rape seriously.