Washington, D.C. - RAINN released the following statement following reports of San Francisco police storing and improperly using DNA collected from a woman during her rape kit exam:

“Reports that police improperly used DNA collected from a survivor during a rape kit exam to investigate another crime is horrifying and an egregious violation of the survivor’s privacy. Survivors who undergo rape kit exams have consented to the collection of their DNA for a very specific purpose: to catch the person who raped them. Storing a survivor’s DNA in a database, or using it for any other purpose, is indefensible, and will discourage them from seeking medical care or reporting an assault. We urge the police to immediately cease this practice, and legislators to make it illegal.” - Camille Cooper, vice president of public policy, RAINN

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About RAINN

RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help survivors, help organizations improve their sexual assault prevention and response programs, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, free, confidential help is available 24/7 by calling 800.656.HOPE (4673) or visiting online.rainn.org.