Data Collection Challenges: Databases and the Unit of Analysis

• In Event: Policy Panel: Challenges and Workarounds in Testing, Investigating, and Prosecuting ‘Backlogged’ Sexual Assault Kits: Findings from the BJA’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative

Abstract

Data collection has been identified as a significant challenge in the Cuyahoga County SAK Task Force. The Task Force has the unique advantage of having a comprehensive electronic database that preceded the Task Force (JusticeMatters); thus, the Task Force is able to track the progress of SAKs as they move through the process. However, the database has several significant limitations, which presents challenges for data collection. Additionally, data collection for this process is complicated by the fact that the unit of analysis changes from: (1) a SAK, (2) to an investigation, (3) to a prosecution, and (4) to a final disposition. This presentation will discuss these challenges and the workarounds the research team developed for data collection. Additionally, we will provide a framework that other jurisdictions can use to help them understand their own process (as each jurisdiction will be different) and for collecting and analyzing meaningful metrics.

Authors

• Rachel Lovell, Case Western Reserve University

• Fredrick Butcher, Case Western Reserve University

• Daniel Flannery, Case Western Reserve University