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DNA Rape-Kit Backlog Down to 648
Photo by dimsumdarren via Flickr
Back in 2008 when some 6,000 to 7,000 rape-kits were sitting on LAPD shelves untested, then-City Controller Laura Chick called it "disturbing" and "unacceptable" finding. The public agreed. Politicians, too. Now, the LAPD is finally getting close to going through the backlog and have 648 left to go, reports the Daily News.
One thing, however, that L.A. officials would like to see change in the future is a requirement by the FBI to have all tests repeated if a private lab was used. If the LAPD only had to retest kits if they were going to be used as evidence in court, testing would be expedited, money would be saved and future backlogs could be avoided.
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This work is only possible with community support. Every investigation, service guide, and story is made possible by people like you who believe that local news is a public good and that everyone deserves access to trustworthy local information.
That’s why we’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Thank you for understanding how essential it is to have an informed community and standing up for free press.
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