Lack of MO rape kit testing makes it harder to identify repeat offenders

With Missouri’s lack of testing evidence kits in sexual assault cases, many are concerned repeat offenders may get off the hook.

Missouri reportedly has an extensive backlog in testing the kits. This backlog seems to discourage agencies from sending any additional evidence for testing — they typically don’t send the evidence unless the victim wants to go forward with charges.

Officials with Joyful Heart Foundation, an advocacy group against sexual violence, say that even if the victim decides not to pursue charges, the attacker’s DNA could still be matched to other evidence kits.

This could potentially help police identify repeat sex offenders and link them to other cases.

It is unknown exactly how many evidence kits have gone untested in the state of Missouri.