Advocates Fear Growing Backlog In DNA Processing Could Slow Rape Prosecutions
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For the first time in nearly a decade, there is a backlog at the city medical Examiner's Office when it comes to processing DNA from sexual assault cases, and as advocates cry foul, the city is scrambling to repair the damage. NY1's Grace Rauh filed the following report. Victims of sexual assault have a potentially powerful tool to track down attackers: DNA evidence. Rape kits are used to collect samples, but it is now taking the city nearly 70 percent longer to process the evidence. The median turnaround time is 42 days, up from 25 days last year.
"It is extremely important that we not enter the territory of a backlog of cases or a delay that means arrests and prosecutions aren't taking place," said Mary Haviland of the New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault.
DNA evidence has played a critical role in solving sexual assault cases, but the longer it takes to process the DNA, the longer a rape suspect may be at large.
Haviland worries about what will happen if the delays start to impede arrests and prosecution.
"Victims could walk away with the message that it's not worth reporting or that nothing concrete will happen if they report," said Haviland.
The medical examiner's office attributes the DNA slowdown to staffing cuts, which have hit at a particularly troubling time.
Rape and sexual assault cases have been on the rise in New York City and the uptick has meant an even bigger workload for the medical examiner.
City officials say the office will get a reprieve soon, with the hiring of 27 additional employees.
A spokeswoman for Mayor Michael Bloomberg says it is a priority for the medical examiner to have the staff necessary to complete DNA testing in a timely manner.
The City Council has been pressing the mayor to fund the agency. Council Speaker Christine Quinn says the city will not go back to the days of massive DNA backlogs.
"We are never going to let that happen again, where DNA tests become boxes on shelves and not critical evidence in the quest for justice for men and women who have been victims of sexual assault," said Quinn.
The speaker says the extra funding from City Hall is a step in the right direction. But she says the council will keeping close tabs on the office to see if more is needed.