Phoenix Police Department Reduces Sexual Assault Kit Backlog, Strengthens Support for Survivors -

The Phoenix Police Department has made significant strides in reducing the backlog of sexual assault kits (SAKs), reaffirming its commitment to justice and support for survivors. With a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach, the department has leveraged innovative practices, increased staffing, and local leadership support to process thousands of SAKs while implementing new tools to improve engagement with victims.

This blog delves into the progress achieved, the initiatives supporting these efforts, and the department’s plans to sustain and enhance its services.

The Impact of Sexual Assault: A Survivor-Centered Response

Sexual assault has profound and lasting effects on survivors, making timely and thorough investigations essential. The Phoenix Police Department has prioritized a victim-centered approach by forming a Sexual Assault Response Team and participating in the Arizona Governor’s Task Force on Sexual Assault. The remodeling of the Family Advocacy Center further exemplifies this commitment, providing survivors with a safe and supportive space to navigate the aftermath of trauma.

Learn more about trauma-informed care from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center.

Leadership and Policy Innovations

In 2016, the Phoenix Police Department introduced a SAK tracking system, two years ahead of the state’s mandate. This forward-thinking initiative ensures transparency and accountability in tracking kits through every stage of processing.

The department’s “test all” policy, adopted eight years ago, mandates the testing of all SAKs, including previously unsubmitted kits dating back to 1978. This policy aligns with national best practices and demonstrates Phoenix’s dedication to justice.

For more on national SAK testing standards, visit the National Institute of Justice.

Tackling the Backlog: Progress Through Outsourcing

The backlog of untested SAKs has been a longstanding challenge nationwide. Thanks to funding approved by Mayor Kate Gallego and the Phoenix City Council in September 2023, the department outsourced SAK testing to increase capacity. As a result:

930 SAKs have been tested since the approval.
The backlog of untested kits has been reduced to 160, with plans to process the remaining kits by early 2025.
Over the past eight years, more than 6,000 SAKs have been tested.

Mayor Gallego, who has championed efforts to reduce the backlog, stated: “We’re going to eliminate the backlog once and for all—and keep it there.”

Explore the significance of backlog reduction efforts at End the Backlog.

Expanding the Victim Information Portal

The department is enhancing victim engagement through the expansion of its Victim Information Portal, initially launched in 2024. By 2025, the portal will include sexual assault cases, providing survivors with real-time updates and streamlined communication. This tool underscores the department’s commitment to transparency and accessibility.

For resources on victim advocacy and support, visit the Office for Victims of Crime.

Staffing and Training: Building Capacity for the Future

To sustain the progress in SAK processing, the Phoenix Crime Laboratory is addressing staffing needs and training forensic scientists:

New Hires: The laboratory is actively hiring for eight forensic DNA analyst positions, with applications available at phoenix.gov/jobs.
Training Program: A robust training program ensures analysts achieve full competency within two years. Ten trainees are set to complete their training by summer 2025, significantly boosting processing capacity.

For information on careers in forensic science, visit the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

Advanced Techniques and Best Practices

The Phoenix Crime Lab employs advanced analytical techniques, adhering to national best practices in forensic science. These methods ensure comprehensive testing and robust results for all SAKs. The lab’s adherence to stringent quality standards reflects its dedication to delivering reliable forensic evidence for investigations.

Learn about forensic science standards from the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC).

The Role of Leadership in Driving Change

Assistant Crime Lab Administrator Ben Swanholm highlighted the critical role of support from city leadership: “The Mayor and Phoenix City Council provided great support for the laboratory and its operations to reduce the backlog of sexual assault kits.” Leadership has been instrumental in securing funding and resources necessary for the lab’s success.

For insights on the importance of leadership in criminal justice reforms, explore the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Progress

The department is committed to sustaining its progress in addressing sexual assault cases. With expanded victim engagement tools, increased staffing, and advanced forensic methods, the Phoenix Police Department aims to set a national example in supporting survivors and achieving justice.

Key initiatives for 2025 include:

Eliminating the Remaining Backlog: Ensuring all 160 untested kits are processed by early 2025.
Enhancing the Victim Portal: Expanding its scope to include more features and better communication for survivors.
Boosting Forensic Capacity: Completing training for new forensic analysts and hiring additional personnel.

Stay updated on the department’s progress by visiting the Phoenix Police Department’s news page.

Conclusion

The Phoenix Police Department has made remarkable progress in reducing the backlog of sexual assault kits, demonstrating its commitment to justice and survivor support. Through innovative policies, increased staffing, and leadership-driven initiatives, the department is creating a safer and more accountable system.

For more information and resources, explore the following links:

By continuing to prioritize victim-centered approaches and fostering innovation, Phoenix sets a standard for addressing sexual assault cases while ensuring survivors receive the justice and support they deserve.