(July 15, 2016) The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) proudly announces that more than 3,500 backlogged sexual assault evidence kits have been tested and results returned to Colorado law enforcement as specified in Colorado House Bill 13-1020.
Of the 3,542 cases identified for forensic testing, nearly half (1,556) of the cases resulted in profiles eligible for submission into the national Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database. Nearly 20% (or 691 profiles) resulted in matches returned to law enforcement for potential investigative follow-up.
CBI Forensic Scientists coordinated with more than 250 Colorado law enforcement agencies to determine the state's backlog, and to process the untested evidence at four accredited private laboratories across the nation beginning in the spring of 2014.
"The participation and coordination of Colorado's public safety community has been exceptional," said CBI Director Mike Rankin. "I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our public safety partners who were instrumental in aiding the CBI in completing this comprehensive project within the designated timeframe and within budget, as determined by the Colorado Legislature."
The law also mandates the testing of all sexual assault evidence moving forward to prevent another backlog in the future. Because of this element of HB13-1020, the CBI has seen an increase of more than 3.5 times the number of sex assault evidence submissions previously sent to the Bureau's forensic laboratories for testing since 2014.
"Colorado's legal commitment to testing of all sexual assault evidence moving forward ensures Colorado will remain a national leader in addressing the issue of sexual assault evidence testing," said Colorado Department of Public Safety Executive Director Stan Hilkey.
The State of Colorado provided $6.3 million dollars to identify the backlog and conduct the testing. Because of purchasing discounts and other negotiations, the CBI utilized $3.3 million for the project, returning the remainder to the state.