This 10-item checklist with a recommendation for each item guides users through the development and implementation of a testing plan for victims of sexual assault.
The first step is to determine who will be involved in creating the testing plan. It is recommended that it be done by a multidisciplinary team with representatives of the key disciplines involved in processing sexual assault cases. The second checklist item is the determination of whether previously uncommitted sexual assault kits should be tested. It is recommended that sexual assault kits remain untested until the victim decides differently. The third checklist item is to determine whether to include partially tested sexual assault kits (SAKs). The recommendation addresses funding issues. The fourth checklist item pertains to how SAKs will be selected for testing. The fifth checklist item involves determining which laboratory will test the SAKs. The remaining checklist items pertain to the method of DNA testing that should be used; how SAKs will be prepared to send for testing; how post-testing results will be verified; how CODIS DNA hits will be received and follow-up management; and when the multidisciplinary team will review and refine testing policies and procedures.