Louisiana – In a significant step towards improving the criminal justice system’s response to sexual assault cases, the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab has launched a statewide Sexual Assault Kit Tracking Program, effective July 1, 2024. This program is a result of Senate Bill 169 (ACT 193), authored by Senator Beth Mizell and signed into law by former Governor John Bel Edwards in 2023.
What the Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Tracking System in Louisiana is
The Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Tracking System is a comprehensive, web-based program that allows sexual assault survivors to anonymously track the location and status of their SAK through the criminal justice system. This system does not collect any personally identifiable information, ensuring survivors can track their kits without fear of being identified. The Tracking System and the Survivor Portal are available on the Louisiana State Police website under the Services tab.
Who Participates in the Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Tracking System in Louisiana
Departmental users, including law enforcement agencies, crime labs, prosecutors, and SANE/medical personnel, are required to participate in the program and must request access, complete an online training video, and receive approval from LSP Crime Lab Administrators.
Louisiana Sexual Assault Kit (SAK) Tracking System Requirements
The launch of this program coincides with the implementation of the “Survivors Bill of Rights,” created by Senate Bill 124 (ACT 669), which was signed into law by Governor Jeff Landry during the 2024 Regular Legislative Session. This bill requires investigating agencies to take possession of a kit within 72 hours of collection at a medical facility, complementing the 2023 legislation that mandates law enforcement to submit reported kits within 30 days to the respective crime lab for forensic analysis.
About Louisiana State Police Crime Lab
The Louisiana State Police Crime Lab is committed to assisting local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in Louisiana with investigating criminal activity by providing accurate and timely scientific analysis of physical evidence. With the launch of this program, the Crime Lab aims to deliver the highest quality professional forensic services to the state, applying sound scientific principles in all analyses and leading the advancement of forensic science.
This statewide Sexual Assault Kit Tracking Program is a significant step towards ensuring that sexual assault survivors receive the justice they deserve, and the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab is dedicated to making this program a success.