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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A backlog in processing evidence that could lead to more rape convictions in Salt Lake City has drawn the attention of city officials.
City council members on Tuesday questioned why no more than 21 percent of Salt Lake City rape kits collected from 2003 to 2011 have gone to a crime lab.
The kits include evidence such as semen and saliva. Advocates say the logjam prevents sexual assault cases from reaching prosecution.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Chris Burbank says it takes six months to analyze a single DNA sample, and police prioritize cases they believe are most likely to go to trial.
The Salt Lake Tribune reports (http://bit.ly/QqfvAs ) Burbank also cites communications issues with the state crime lab.
Salt Lake City Democrat Rep. Jennifer Seelig sponsored successful legislation this year to streamline the process.
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Information from: The Salt Lake Tribune, http://www.sltrib.com
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