DNA and Sexual Violence

When law enforcement investigates a case of sexual violence, DNA evidence can sometimes make or break the outcome. DNA evidence has become a routine part of investigating and prosecuting all types of crimes, but it’s not without some challenges.

Addressing the Rape Kit Backlog

The overwhelming backlog of DNA evidence is currently one of the biggest obstacles to prosecuting perpetrators of sexual violence.

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What Is a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam?

During a sexual assault forensic exam, a trained healthcare professional can collect DNA evidence from your body, clothes, and other personal belongings.

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The Importance of DNA in Sexual Assault Cases

Preserving DNA evidence is a key tool for law enforcement to investigate and prosecute crimes of sexual violence.

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Debbie Smith Act

The Debbie Smith Act intends to eliminate the backlog of untested and unanalyzed DNA evidence by providing the resources to process evidence and add these samples to the national DNA database.

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SAFER Act

The SAFER Act supports efforts to audit, test, and reduce the backlog of DNA evidence in sexual assault cases and bring perpetrators to justice.

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Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI)

RAINN is part of a team of national experts providing technical assistance and support to cities and states around the country that receive SAKI funding to tackle existing and future backlogs.

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The rape kit backlog is currently one of the biggest obstacles to prosecuting perpetrators of sexual violence.

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Out of every 1,000 sexual assaults, 310 are reported to the police.

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A $25 monthly gift can educate 15,000 people about preventing sexual violence. Can you think of a better way to spend $1 a day?

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