Fallin Forms Task Force to Address Backlog of Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence

Governor Fallin issued an executive order Monday creating a task force to address the backlog of sexual assault forensic evidence kits in the state’s justice system. The task force will conduct an audit to find out how big the backlog is and to identify funding sources to alleviate the backlog.

“Sexual assault is a horrific crime, and we should do everything we can to support the survivors,” said Fallin. “This new task force will examine all facets of the issue of sexual assault and sexual assault forensic evidence kits to ensure that victims are able to seek justice and begin the healing process. I thank Senator Kay Floyd for her work on this issue, and I look forward to seeing the results of the task force. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, so it is especially appropriate that we move forward on this important subject.”

The state doesn’t have a mandate or tracking system for sexual assault forensic evidence kits. Senator Kay Floyd was trying to change this with Senate Bill 654. It inspired Fallin to act.

“I am grateful for the governor’s interest in and support of this important issue,” said Floyd. “This task force will identify the number of untested kits in the possession of each law enforcement agency by means of agency audits, and it will also identify funding sources that are available to assist in financing the elimination of any backlog of untested kits. This should reduce wait times when kits are tested. I am thankful to state and local law enforcement agencies that have been a part of both identifying this need and in creating the task force, as well as Reps. Scott Biggs and John Paul Jordan for their roles in bringing this legislation to a fruitful conclusion.”

The Task Force on Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence will be made up with sexual assault survivors, members of the legal and law enforcement community, and representatives from the House and Senate.

Read the executive order here.


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