NCJ Number
255796
Journal
American Journal of Criminal Justice Dated: 2020
Date Published
2020
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study analyzed a large sample of sexual assaults over almost two decades in one urban U.S. jurisdiction with previously untested sexual assault kits that were initially not successfully adjudicated (n=717).
Abstract
The study examined patterns of attrition through descriptive statistics and predictors of attrition using continuation-ratio modeling. Findings provide a more comprehensive framework for examining attrition, exploring the bureaucratic burden placed on victims to identify who sexually assaulted them and to remain engaged in a potentially harmful process and system. Implications suggest this burden could be eased by increased trauma-informed victim support and protocols, as well as increased use of forensic evidence. 90 references (publisher abstract modified)