{"id":446,"date":"2020-11-24T10:57:48","date_gmt":"2020-11-24T15:57:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/?page_id=446"},"modified":"2025-05-02T13:15:48","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T17:15:48","slug":"law-enforcement","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/law-enforcement\/","title":{"rendered":"Resources for Advocates &amp; Law Enforcement"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 56%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>NC SAKI Listserv<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The NC SAKI Listserv is for those in North Carolina working on the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) SAK backlog project. Specifically law enforcement, advocates, prosecutors, NC State Crime Laboratory, NC Department of Justice, District Attorneys, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE), and STIMS Coordinators. The listserv is meant to share strategies, ask questions, post articles, or just get support from others in NC working to eliminate the backlog and bring survivors justice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" id=\"block-2c52058f-aba7-46e9-b69a-0e251e9f2a1b\">\n<p><strong>To subscribe<\/strong>, please send an email to:\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:NC-SAKI+subscribe@groups.io\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NC-SAKI+subscribe@groups.io<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-996 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-380x253.jpg 380w, https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2021\/03\/national-cancer-institute-fd0b-Bl4cFc-unsplash-760x506.jpg 760w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tools for Victim Notification<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These victim notification tools have been created by the North Carolina Department of Justice Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) Working Group. This group is a multidisciplinary group of professionals &#8211; law enforcement , victim advocates, sexual assault nurse examiners, district attorney, forensic specialists &#8211; committed to improving our state\u2019s approach to sexual assault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/20013\/nc-saki-wg-vn-quick-sheet-03-03-2020\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NC SAKI Working Group Victim Notification Recommendations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19467\/nc_saki_prioritizing-notifications11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Prioritizing Notifications<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19459\/notification-checklist-11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Notification Checklist<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19465\/nc-saki_le-victim-notification-record11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Law Enforcement Victim Notification Record Form<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19466\/nc-saki-_advocate-victim-notification-record11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Advocate Victim Notification Record Form<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19463\/nc-saki-_survivor-information-sheet-11-26-19-logo\">Sur<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19463\/nc-saki-_survivor-information-sheet-11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">vivor Information Form<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19469\/nc_saki_telephone-call-sample-script11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sample Notification Telephone Script<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19460\/nc-saki_notifier-faq_11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Notifier FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19468\/nc_saki_survivor-faqs-11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Notification FAQs for Victims\/Survivors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/new-NC_SAKI_Key-Terms-and-definitions12.1.19-logo-1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Key Terms &amp; Definitions for Victims\/Survivors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19461\/nc_saki_helping-a-survivor-of-sexual-assault11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">For Friends &amp; Family: How to Support a Survivor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/download\/151\/public-protection\/19464\/nc_saki_resources11-26-19-logo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Carolina Resources<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Survivor Act Goals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Two of the fundamental goals of the Survivor Act:<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Testing of all future sexual assault evidence collection kits (SAKs) reported to law enforcement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> Testing of previously untested SAKs reported to law enforcement with a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Steps to follow when you have untested SAKs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Enter <em><u>all SAKs<\/u><\/em> into the North Carolina Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit Tracking System and Information Management System (STIMS)<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Email <a href=\"mailto:NCSTIMS@NCDOJ.gov\"><strong><u>NCSTIMS@NCDOJ.gov<\/u><\/strong><\/a> for STIMS access<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certify inventory of untested SAKs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Identify all SAKs collected on or before <em>January 1, 2018<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>For SAKs collected on or before January 1, 2018:<\/em><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Convene a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to review all cases. <strong>The review team must be established as soon as practicable, but no later than December 18, 2019.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The MDT meets to survey the LEA\u2019s entire inventory of pre-2018 SAKs, then determine a priority order for testing. <strong>The review team\u2019s work must be completed as soon as practicable, but no later than March 18, 2020<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If there are SAKs in possession where the MDT determines the survivor did not consent to participate in the criminal justice process by reporting the crime to law enforcement (\u201cunreported\/anonymous\u201d), send those SAKs to<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncdps.gov\/our-organization\/law-enforcement\/law-enforcement-support-services\"><strong><u> Law Enforcement Support Service (LESS)<\/u><\/strong><\/a> Warehouse instead of sending them to the Crime Laboratory for testing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Any SAKs that the MDT determines are unfounded (after a MDT determines after a trained cold case review that by clear and convincing evidence a crime did not occur, see FAQ) or adjudicated (where a criminal prosecution has resulted in conviction, the convicted person\u2019s DNA profile is in CODIS, and the convicted person does not seek DNA testing) shall not be submitted.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For any SAKs that do not fall within the two points above <em>please request approval by the State Crime Laboratory for testing of those immediately<\/em> while your MDT does a cold case review of the remaining untested SAKs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Send email to <a href=\"mailto:SAK@NCDOJ.gov\"><strong><u>SAK@NCDOJ.gov<\/u><\/strong><\/a> for form and directions on approval by the State Crime Laboratory for testing of any SAK collected <em>before January 1, 2018<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Upon receiving approval for testing from the State Crime Laboratory, submit SAK to outsourcing laboratory.<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The State Crime Laboratory\/Vendor laboratory will test SAKs on a first come first serve basis. Should vendor laboratory capacity become an issue the State Crime Laboratory will provide instructions to LEA\u2019s to submit SAKs based upon their MDT\u2019s prioritization.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>For SAKs completed between January 2, 2018 and June 30, 2019:<\/em><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>SAKs should be submitted <strong>as soon as practicable<\/strong> to the State Crime Laboratory using the Forensic Advantage Portal (laboratory information management system) request for examination form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>However, <u>any SAKs where the survivor did not consent to participate in the criminal justice process by reporting the crime to law enforcement (\u201cunreported SAKs\u201d)<\/u><\/em> should be sent to the Law Enforcement Support Service (LESS) Warehouse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>For SAKs completed on or after July 1, 2019:<\/em><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>SAKs should be submitted <strong>within 45 days after taking custody of the kit<\/strong> to the State Crime Laboratory using the Forensic Advantage Portal (laboratory information management system) request for examination form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>However,<em><u> any SAKs where the survivor did not consent to participate in the criminal justice process by reporting the crime to law enforcement (\u201cunreported SAKs\u201d)<\/u><\/em> should be sent to the Law Enforcement Support Service (LESS) Warehouse.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>When results are received from testing pre-2018 SAKs:<\/em><\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Review to determine whether the case should be re-opened for investigation and prosecution. It is recommended as a best practice to utilize your local MDT team in reviewing returned case information and determining whether to proceed with the criminal justice process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Once test results are received, and with the support of the MDT, the victim notification process should begin.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>NOTE: There are some situations where victim notification may not be appropriate or should be made earlier. (See forthcoming victim notification section.)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proceed with case investigation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A law enforcement agency that receives an actionable CODIS hit on a submitted DNA sample must provide an email to the <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/crime-lab\/codis-hit-follow-up\/\"><strong><u>State Crime Laboratory or use the form here<\/u><\/strong><\/a><strong> <em>within 15 days of an arrest and within 15 days after a conviction resulting from a CODIS Hit<\/em>.<\/strong><br><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncdoj.gov\/testthekits\/training-videos\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Law Enforcement Training Videos<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Multidisciplinary Teams (MDT) FAQ&#8217;s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"hrf-faq-list\"><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-611\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-611\"><span><\/span>What roles do MDTs play in North Carolina\u2019s Survivor Act?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-611\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\"><strong data-rich-text-format-boundary=\"true\">G.S.15A-266.5A<\/strong><\/a> directed local jurisdictions to form MDTs to do case reviews of untested Sexual Assault Examination Crime Kits (SAKs).<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-612\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-612\"><span><\/span>Who should be a member of these MDT teams?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-612\">\r\n\r\nRecommended team members, in addition to law enforcement include: prosecutors, sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs), victim advocacy groups, survivors of sexual assault, and representatives from a forensic laboratory.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nNOTE: Smaller LEAs may have fewer participants in their MDTs. In those cases, it is highly recommended that along with law enforcement there is a prosecutor and a victim advocate\r\n\r\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-613\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-613\"><span><\/span>What happens at the first MDT meeting?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-613\">\r\n<p>At the initial meeting, purpose and roles within the MDT should be determined. Furthermore, the workload should be assessed (initially reviewing unfounded cases) and the meeting dates set.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>The first priority for the MDT created by The Survivor Act is to review all cases collected prior to January 1, 2018 and prioritize testing based on factors outlined under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>G.S. 15A-266.5A(d)(2<\/strong><\/a>). This way, LEAs will know which SAKs to send first after contacting the State Crime Laboratory and being instructed as to how many can be outsourced at that time for testing.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Note: Unfounded is definitively different from unsubstantiated. Sometimes these definitions are used interchangeably and it is critical that the definition of \u201cunfounded\u201d be held to its legal standard.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-615\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-615\"><span><\/span>How long do MDTs operate?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-615\"><p>The adoption of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>G.S. 15A-266.5A<\/strong><\/a> promotes MDTs as a best practice for investigating and prosecuting sexual assault crimes. It is recommend that the MDT continue to meet after all untested cases are resolved because the MDT model is a national best practice for an improved response to sexual assault and is highly effective when responding to recent sexual assault cases.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-616\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-616\"><span><\/span>Should the MDT review SAK dated on or after January 1, 2018?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-616\"><p>It is optional, but encouraged. Any reported SAK collected between January 2, 2018 and June 30, 2019 is to be submitted as soon as is practicable. The Survivor Act does not require these post-2018 kits to be reviewed by an MDT for prioritization. However, the best practice recommendation is for a victim-centered, trauma informed MDT to review cases and to determine how to move forward with victim notification, the investigation, and prosecution.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-617\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-617\"><span><\/span>Should the MDT review SAK dated on or after July 1, 2019?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-617\"><p>Not before testing. Pursuant to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>G.S. 15A-266.5A(c)(2)<\/strong><\/a>, any reported SAK collected on or after July 1, 2019, is to be submitted to the State Crime Laboratory, or a laboratory approved by the State Crime Laboratory, not more than 45 days after the LEA takes custody of the SAK. However, the best practice recommendation is for a victim-centered, trauma informed MDT to review cases after testing to determine how to move forward with victim notification, the investigation, and prosecution.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-618\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-618\"><span><\/span>What is the difference between a SART and a MDT?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-618\">\r\n<p>There are many similarities between SARTs (Sexual Assault Response Teams) and MDTs. Both are multidisciplinary teams of professionals who come to provide coordinated responses to sexual assault. Both work to address the needs of victims and hold offenders accountable. Each practices information-sharing and community education and develops local response protocols.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>North Carolina\u2019s Survivor Act uses the term MDT and places a strong focus on case reviews of untested sexual assault kits.<\/p>\r\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article style = \"display:block;text-align:right; font-size:11px\">Powered by <a href=\"https:\/\/websitebuilderguide.com\/wp-plugins\/html5-responsive-faq-plugin-for-wordpress\/\" target=\"_blank\">HTML5 Responsive FAQ<\/a><\/article><\/div><!-- HRF v 2.8.4 -->\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Process for Submitting Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kits (SAKs) FAQ&#8217;s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"hrf-faq-list\"><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-635\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-635\"><span><\/span>When do MDTs have to contact the State Crime Laboratory and request testing of their LEA\u2019s untested kits?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-635\"><p>Pursuant to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S.15A-266.5A<\/a>, the MDT must contact the State Crime Laboratory to request testing of their LEA\u2019s untested SAKs as soon as practicable <strong>no later than<\/strong> <strong>March 18, 2020<\/strong>.\u00a0 Please do not wait until then to form an MDT, prioritize pre-2018 cases in the LEA\u2019s inventory, and request testing of your untested SAKs.<\/p>\n<p><strong>We have the resources now to test your SAKs<\/strong>. Reviews and submissions can certainly be done in phases and in cycles in order to quickly begin outsourcing portions of your untested inventory. This is what has been called a \u201cmodified fork-lift approach\u201d in identifying kits for testing. This approach involves an initial selection of a random number of kits \u2013 for instance, selecting 50 out of 100 previously untested kits \u2013 from which to conduct the first \u201ccycle\u201d of case review by the MDT to determine whether they should be tested. Once those kits have been submitted, conduct another cycle to review the remaining 50 and then contact the laboratory to request testing of the second cycle.<\/p>\n<p><em>This process will continue until the entire untested inventory has been reviewed and either a) tested or b) determined to fall into the following categories: i) Unreported (send to LESS Warehouse), ii) Determined Unfounded after MDT review; or iii) There was a criminal conviction and the perpetrator\u2019s DNA is already in CODIS and the convicted person does not seek DNA testing.<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\"> G.S. 15A-266.5A(d)(3).<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-636\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-636\"><span><\/span>What is the difference between a reported and an unreported kit?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-636\"><p>A SAK that is <strong><em>reported <\/em><\/strong>is one in which the survivor has consented to participate in the criminal justice process through reporting the crime to law enforcement. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(b)(4)<\/a>. Reported SAKs dated after July 1, 2019, are to be sent by the LEA to the laboratory for testing within 45 days of taking custody of the SAK.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(c)(2)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>A SAK that is <strong><em>unreported<\/em><\/strong><em>, <\/em>also referred to as anonymous, is one which the survivor consented to the evidence collection, but has not consented to participate in the criminal justice process by reporting the crime to law enforcement \u2013 meaning they are not seeking to have their kit tested. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(b)(6)<\/a>. All unreported kits are to be submitted to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncdps.gov\/our-organization\/law-enforcement\/law-enforcement-support-services\">Department of Public Safety and stored at the LESS Warehouse<\/a>.\u00a0 The survivor may decide at any time if or when they are ready to move forward with the criminal justice process.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(c)(3)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-637\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-637\"><span><\/span>What is an unfounded SAK?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-637\"><p>An unfounded SAK is a reported sexual assault kit, whereupon completion of the investigation, a comprehensive case review by the LEA, and complete review by the MDT, it was concluded by the investigating LEA, based on clear and convincing evidence, that a crime did not occur. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(b)(5),(d)(3)(b)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-638\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-638\"><span><\/span>What should be done with SAKs collected before January 1, 2018, that the LEA determines to be unfounded after comprehensive case review and review by the MDT?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-638\"><p>The LEA must track any previously untested SAKs that it determines, after completion of the investigation, a comprehensive case review by the LEA, and complete review by the MDT, are unfounded &#8211; meaning that the LEA, at the end of this process, concluded based on clear and convincing evidence that a crime did not occur.\u00a0 The required tracking that an LEA must perform for unfounded SAKs includes documenting the number of SAKS that are unfounded, as well as a brief summary of the clear and convincing evidence that supports the determination of unfounded. \u00a0If later on, the LEA receives information or evidence that creates investigative or evidentiary value for testing the previously unfounded kit, the LEA shall send the unfounded kit to the Crime Laboratory for testing as soon as practicable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-639\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-639\"><span><\/span>For kits collected before January 1, 2018, where the kit was not submitted due to a criminal conviction, should that kit be submitted for testing?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-639\"><p>Possibly.<\/p>\n<p>The reason for testing a kit even though there was a criminal conviction is that many perpetrators of sexual violence tend to re-offend. CODIS is a critical investigative tool that can link multiple cases together and help law enforcement apprehend repeat offenders. Therefore, uploading the perpetrators DNA profile to CODIS even though they plead guilty in the instant case can help solve other cold cases. The MDT should engage the North Carolina Innocence Inquiry Commission to assist with SAECK testing decisions related to post-conviction cases.\u00a0 However, if there was a criminal conviction, the convicted person\u2019s DNA profile is already in CODIS, and the convicted person does not seek DNA testing, that SAECK should be withheld from submission.<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3Ec_gLYJM98\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-640\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-640\"><span><\/span>For SAKs collected after January 1, 2018, where the kit was not submitted because the survivor did not want the kit tested meaning did not report the crime to law enforcement, should that kit be submitted for testing?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-640\"><p>No.<\/p>\n<p>This would be considered an unreported, or anonymous SAK under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.net\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/HTML\/ByChapter\/Chapter_15A.html\">G.S. 15A-266.5A(b)(6)<\/a>. After a review to confirm the survivor did not consent to participate in the criminal justice process by reporting the crime to law enforcement, these SAKs are to be sent to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncdps.gov\/our-organization\/law-enforcement\/law-enforcement-support-services\">Law Enforcement Support Services (LESS) Warehouse with the Department of Public of Safety<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-641\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-641\"><span><\/span>To complete the 2017 SAK inventory, certain classifications were used. Can we use these in STIMS?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-641\"><p>While some of the original classifications may carry over, many will require an updated determination.\u00a0 These cases need to be reviewed with fresh eyes, <strong>particularly as it relates to the category of unfounded<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-642\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-642\"><span><\/span>What is the role of STIMS in addressing previously untested SAKs?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-642\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncleg.gov\/EnactedLegislation\/Statutes\/PDF\/BySection\/Chapter_114\/GS_114-65.pdf\">G.S. 114-65<\/a> directs all SAKs, including untested SAKs, to be tracked in STIMS.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-643\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-643\"><span><\/span>How do LEAs request testing approval for untested SAKs?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-643\"><p>LEAs should contact the State Crime Laboratory by emailing SAK@ncdoj.gov to request a form and directions for any kits collected before January 1, 2018. When the kit form is completed, it is sent to the State Crime Laboratory for approval. It is normal for LEAs to send request forms for multiple kits to the laboratory at once. All other kits should be submitted to the State Crime Laboratory using the FA Portal Request for Examination form.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-644\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-644\"><span><\/span>Upon approval from the State Crime Laboratory for testing, what are the next steps for submission of SAKs?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-644\"><p>It is the responsibility of the LEAs to submit the SAK once the LEAs receive approval from the State Crime Laboratory. The LEA will receive instructions regarding how to submit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-645\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-645\"><span><\/span>What results can LEAs expect from the outsourcing laboratory?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-645\"><p>The LEAs will receive copies of all reports (negative or positive for DNA) from the outsourcing laboratory. A SAK that is positive for DNA in sufficient quantity and quality to develop a DNA profile will have the profile entered into CODIS by the State Crime Laboratory. The State Crime Laboratory will notify the LEA of any CODIS hits and will request a known standard for subsequent testing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article class=\"hrf-entry\" id=\"hrf-entry-646\">\n                      <h3 class=\"hrf-title close-faq\" data-content-id=\"hrf-content-646\"><span><\/span>What should LEAs do after receiving results?<\/h3>\n                     <div class=\"hrf-content\" id=\"hrf-content-646\"><p>Upon receiving the DNA results and any information related to CODIS hits, the LEA will determine whether to move forward with the criminal justice process. It is recommended as a best practice that the LEA utilize their MDT team to review the results and to assist with\u00a0 determinations as to whether to reopen the case.\u00a0 Also, once test results are received, victim notification should proceed.<\/p>\n<p>The LEAs will receive copies of all reports (negative or positive for DNA) from the outsourcing laboratory. A SAK that is positive for DNA in sufficient quantity and quality to develop a DNA profile that meets FBI requirements will have the profile entered into CODIS by the State Crime Laboratory. The State Crime Laboratory will notify the LEA of any CODIS hits and will request a known standard for subsequent testing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n                  <\/article><article style = \"display:block;text-align:right; font-size:11px\">Powered by <a href=\"https:\/\/websitebuilderguide.com\/wp-plugins\/html5-responsive-faq-plugin-for-wordpress\/\" target=\"_blank\">HTML5 Responsive FAQ<\/a><\/article><\/div><!-- HRF v 2.8.4 -->\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>NC SAKI Listserv The NC SAKI Listserv is for those in North Carolina working on the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) SAK backlog project. 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