South Raleigh News

Attorney General Josh Stein of North Carolina proudly announced the successful elimination of the state's backlog of untested older sexual assault kits. Stein expressed his satisfaction with the collaborative effort that led to this achievement, acknowledging the contributions of various stakeholders and highlighting the crucial role played by victims in submitting evidence for testing. He emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to prevent a similar backlog in the future and to support law enforcement in solving cold cases.

Since 2017, Attorney General Stein has been committed to prioritizing the testing of these kits to deliver justice for survivors. Through a coordinated effort involving the legislature, local law enforcement, and the Department of Justice, it was determined that over 16,000 untested kits were in need of processing. Subsequently, the Survivor Act was enacted to establish a clear testing process, secure funding, and set standards for timely testing of new kits. The implementation of a tracking system further ensured transparency and accountability in the testing process.

As of April 2024, a significant number of kits have been tested or are undergoing testing, leading to numerous DNA matches and arrests. The successful testing of these kits has not only provided closure to survivors but has also demonstrated the state's commitment to seeking justice for victims of sexual assault.

Ms. Linda, a sexual assault survivor and advocate, commended the efforts of the state's Crime Lab in addressing the backlog, emphasizing their dedication to the cause. Monika Johnson-Hostler, executive director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault, recognized the impact of the initiative in advancing cold cases and ensuring that survivors receive the justice they deserve.

Ilse Knecht, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Joyful Heart Foundation, praised North Carolina for its commitment to clearing the backlog of rape kits, stating that every survivor has been shown that their experiences matter and that justice is attainable. Knecht expressed hope that other states would follow North Carolina's example in prioritizing justice for survivors.

Through transparency and regular updates, Attorney General Stein and the Department of Justice have kept stakeholders informed about the progress of the kit testing project. The state's efforts to address the backlog have not only brought closure to survivors but have also set a precedent for other states to prioritize justice for victims of sexual assault.