Tested and no leads: Fully leveraging forensic evidence in sexual assault kits via forensic genetic genealogy and familial DNA searches

• In Event: Panel 2: Sexual Assault and Sexual Assault Kits

Abstract

In 2013, the Cuyahoga County Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Task Force, led by the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, began following up with investigations and prosecutions of ~7,000 untested SAKs, resulting in the indictments of 960 defendants connected to 1,050 victims, largely funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance’s SAK Initiative. In 2020, the work expanded with the launch of the G.O.L.D. Unit to review unsolved cold cases, conduct follow-up investigations, and review evidence for potentially applying advanced forensic techniques. Among other tasks, this included reviewing cases where the SAK had been tested and produced a unique male DNA profile but no lead in the DNA database. Prosecutors would then obtain a “John Doe” indictment to ensure the statute of limitations did not expire. To date, the Unit has indicted 192 “John Does,” submitted 62 DNA profiles in violent crime cases for FGG and/or familial DNA searches (not all are SAKs), identified 16 offenders, and solved 23 rapes. This presentation details the SAKTF’s process (not all cases are eligible, and testing is costly and labor-intensive) and provides preliminary outcomes of ongoing efforts. Findings have legal, social, and testing implications and speak to the importance of ensuring forensic evidence is fully leveraged.

Authors

• Rachel Lovell, Cleveland State University

• Mary C. Weston, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office

• Angela Williamson, Bode Technology