FORT WORTH, Texas — Fort Worth is getting help from the federal government to clear a backlog of hundreds of untested forensic evidence from hundreds of sexual assault victims.
According to a press release from Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, the city, Tarrant County, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center are receiving a $2.1 million federal grant.
- City of Fort Worth - $689,620
- Tarrant County - $516, 863
- UNT Health Science Center - $981,387
Texas Senator John Cornyn, a strong supporter of the Debbie Smith Act, helped advocate for funding to address the backlog of rape kits.
“DNA analysis is a critical tool used to identify perpetrators, exonerate innocent suspects, and solve cases,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud of the work we’ve done to reduce the backlog of DNA tests over the years, but I will not rest until every victim and family in Texas has the answers they’re looking for and the justice they deserve.”
Fort Worth's Police Crime Lab had 898 overdue cases in October 2024. That number has since dropped to 708 cases. Chief Neil Noakes told the City Council in October he hoped to clear the backlog by April 2025.
In a November interview with WFAA, Chief Noakes promised accountability moving forward such as contracting with the medical examiner on new lab cases, hiring additional lab workers, and contacting the hundreds of rape victims whose cases are backlogged.
“We are grateful for Senator Cornyn’s shared commitment of doing whatever it takes to support crime victims and hold offenders accountable. This aligns with our department’s focus on facing this head-on and getting things done right," Chief Noakes said.
He also told council members his detectives will now be held accountable for keeping in contact with victims and updating them on their cases.
"This $2M grant aimed at reducing the backlog of DNA testing will undoubtedly expedite the process, strengthen our collaboration with forensic labs, and improve overall community safety," Chief Noakes said.
