Illinois Senate Bill SB3415

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/8/24

Caption

SEXUAL ASSAULT EVIDENCE-NOTIFY

Impact

The amendments introduced by SB3415 aim to streamline communication between law enforcement and survivors of sexual assault, ensuring that victims are kept informed about significant developments in their cases. The bill stipulates that if a law enforcement agency cannot contact the survivor within 5 days of receiving a DNA match notification, they must continue efforts to do so. This obligation emphasizes the importance of victim engagement and support throughout the legal process.

Summary

SB3415 amends the Sexual Assault Evidence Submission Act to enhance the procedures surrounding the handling and notification of DNA evidence in sexual assault cases. It mandates that if a consistent DNA profile is identified from submitted sexual assault evidence, the Illinois State Police must notify the relevant law enforcement agency within 7 days. Furthermore, the law enforcement agency is required to acknowledge the notification and provide additional information regarding the case within 5 days. Additionally, they must notify the survivor of the DNA match, but only if such disclosure would not interfere with the ongoing investigation or prosecution.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB3415 is the provision allowing law enforcement to prohibit survivors from accessing information about DNA matches if such disclosure could impede an investigation. Critics argue that this could create further distress for survivors who may feel excluded from the legal process or uninformed about proceedings that directly affect them. Balancing the needs for investigation integrity and survivor rights remains a key discussion point as stakeholders assess the provisions of the bill.