CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Illinois lawmakers have heard encouraging words from the authorities about reducing the backlog of processing DNA evidence in rape cases. But officials admit they could be doing a better job.
Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly said it’s not taking as long for the state Crime Labs to process DNA evidence, and they want to improve the performance.
"We made additional, specific recommendations to the General Assembly that if implemented we will help sustain the momentum of reducing the backlog and improving turnaround times. Frankly, that is my biggest concern at this point is that we keep moving in the right direction," he said.
Deputy State Police Director Robin Wollery told a senate committee hearing that the agency is upgrading equipment and brining in new personnel to process DNA evidence in rape cases and increasing capacity.
"We started a familia DNA analysis pilot, this was begun in 2019. In October 2020, new software was implemented to enhance the ability of the laboratory systems to conduct familia DNA searches," she said.
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Carrie Ward, director of the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault, told a state senate hearing she appreciates the progress, but when it comes to rape victims, police are still taking too long with DNA evidence.
"If we want victims to report to law enforcement, if we want cases to move forward, if we want rapists to be prosecuted, and if we want to help victims begin the healing process the backlog must be eliminated," Ward said.
"We are encouraged by the progress, but we must continue to emphasize, as we have in the past, that our primary focus is on victims and the wait time remains too long."
State Police officials said they’re moving in the right direction, and they asked lawmakers for help in continuing the progress.