Ramsey County law enforcement leaders are doubling down on their commitment to combat sexual assault.
In just six years, the charge rate for adult criminal sexual conduct cases has jumped from 39% to 64%.
"This work is a lot like a marathon that doesn't have a finish line," says Ramsey County Attorney John Choi.
St. Paul Police Chief Axel Henry says it's a team effort that has no boundaries.
"If a St. Paul victim presents to a Roseville officer or a Mounds View officer or Ramsey County Sheriff's deputy, they are not going to be turned away," Henry explained. "We don't do that here."
The effort will focus on better forensic testing, training and retention for designated investigators, and community advocacy so victims don't feel so alone or have extended waiting periods during this process.
"The legislature has set a goal for the BCA and all laboratories to test all sexual assault examination kits in 90 days or less," Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said. "We're meeting that right now and that's very important to be able to seek justice in these cases to get those answers quickly."
Evans also said that this is the first time he can remember where there is no backlog of cases pending 90 days or more.