Rape victim finally contacted by HPD 5 years after assault says ‘we matter’

For weeks, a sexual assault survivor, identified as “Jennifer,” has been struggling to find peace, unable to sleep in her own room after a traumatic incident at a family party in 2018. Despite seeking medical help and undergoing a sexual assault kit examination, Jennifer never received updates from the police regarding her case.

Investigations reveal that Jennifer’s case is among 49 sexual assault incidents with DNA evidence that Harris County Forensic Science Center and Houston Police Department (HPD) have prioritized. However, HPD had suspended over 260,000 cases, including Jennifer’s, citing a lack of personnel.

Recent internal communications between HPD and the forensic center shed light on efforts to address these suspended cases. A meeting in April discussed strategies for handling the 4,017 suspended sexual assault reports, with emphasis on those with CODIS hits connecting DNA to suspects.

Despite challenges, HPD assures that cases with CODIS hits are being addressed as a priority. Chief Finner has committed to reviewing and reopening suspended cases, ensuring thorough investigations. However, reaching out to victims like Jennifer has proven challenging due to outdated contact information.

Jennifer’s ordeal reflects the profound impact of sexual assault on survivors, who often endure lasting trauma and struggle to find closure. Despite the pain, survivors like Jennifer demand justice and recognition of their experiences. HPD’s ongoing efforts to address these cases are critical in restoring trust and providing closure for survivors.