Idaho State Police Forensic Services Publishes 2024 Idaho Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit Annual Report

MERIDIAN, Idaho – Idaho State Police Forensic Services (ISPFS) has released the 2024 Idaho Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit (SAECK) Annual Report, as mandated by Idaho Code. This comprehensive report provides transparency and accountability for the examination and processing of sexual assault evidence collection kits statewide during the 2024 calendar year.

“Our commitment to justice for survivors and the integrity of forensic processes is unwavering. We ensure that every kit is thoroughly tested, and every eligible sample is entered into the CODIS database,” reaffirmed Matthew Gamette, ISPFS Laboratory Systems Director.

The annual report highlights the following data:

• Sexual assault evidence collection kits purchased by ISPFS: 640
• Sexual assault evidence collection kits distributed by ISPFS: 579
• Number of kits collected statewide: 457
• Number of kits tested by ISPFS laboratory: 427
• Kits not submitted to ISPFS laboratory under subsection (8): 78
• DNA database hits from kit evidence results: 40
• Unresolved DNA database hits: 32
• Kits completed without required reference samples: 178

Since January 2017, Idaho has been a national leader as the first state to fully implement a statewide sexual assault evidence collection kit tracking system. This innovative system, which provides transparency and accountability, has not only allowed survivors and the public to track kits without requiring a login but also empowered survivors to engage with law enforcement, forensic laboratories, and Idaho legislators. It has fostered a more transparent and supportive environment for those impacted by sexual violence.

ISPFS processed 427 sexual assault evidence kits in 2024, demonstrating a strong commitment to providing timely and accurate forensic analysis. By addressing previously untested and partially tested kits, ISPFS ensures that every piece of evidence is utilized to its fullest potential in pursuing justice.

This annual report underscores ISPFS’s dedication to continuous improvement in forensic processes, transparency, and service to the public, instilling confidence in our stakeholders and the public.

The full 2024 Idaho Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit Annual Report is available on the Idaho State Police website. (https://bit.ly/42q91Jo)

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Posted in Forensic Services