Stuff You Should Know Selects: How Rape Kits Work
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Aug 16, 2025 Dive into the world of rape kits, essential tools in sexual assault investigations. Explore the troubling backlog crisis that leaves many victims unheard, and understand the importance of timely processing in the pursuit of justice. Discover advancements in evidence collection dating back to the late 1970s and their significant impact on both law enforcement and societal perceptions. Learn about the post-assault care process, emphasizing the need for compassionate support and medical attention for survivors.
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Kits Changed How Assaults Were Treated
- Rape kits legitimize sexual assault as a serious crime by standardizing evidence collection.
- Their simple boxed format greatly improved victims being taken seriously in investigations.
Marty Goddard's Grassroots Origin Story
- Marty Goddard, a survivor, organized hospitals, cops, and lawyers to create standardized kits.
- She funded initial kits with a $10,000 Playboy Foundation grant to keep them inexpensive and widely available.
Act Quickly And Preserve Evidence
- If assaulted, seek safety and go to the ER promptly, ideally within 24 hours for best DNA collection.
- Avoid showering and preserve clothing in a bag to retain critical evidence for testing.