LAPD rape kit backlog reduced 65 percent

Nov. 5, 2009 | KPCC Wire Services

The backlog of untested rape kits at the LAPD has been reduced by nearly 65 percent, according to a new audit by City Controller Wendy Greuel. An earlier audit had found thousands of kits untested, including 217 that had exceeded the statute of limitations.

While LAPD records indicate the backlog has been reduced by nearly 65 percent, the department's record keeping is inconsistent, making it difficult to give entirely accurate numbers.

CA/Local News

The LAPD has outsourced some kits to reduce the backlog, but a bureaucratic FBI policy has forced nearly 1,100 kits to be tested twice, creating an additional backlog.

The audit also found that the LAPD needs to create a standard notification procedure to alert rape victims of changes in their cases, and that the department should go beyond the state Penal Code and notify every victim, not just those raped after 2004.

The audit also said the department needs to provide more frequent and thorough updates to the City Council, which should also be distributed publicly.

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