Today, officials announced that the Tulsa Police Department (TPD) has received a $2.5 million grant from the National Sexual Kit Initiative. The funding is aimed at supporting the prosecution of unsolved sexual assault cases and enhancing responses to such crimes.
The initiative highlights that many individuals linked to unsubmitted kits are responsible for multiple violent offenses, including homicides. U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson stated, "This essential funding allows victims of sexual assault to receive long-awaited justice." He expressed hope that the grant would help reopen unsolved cases and provide closure for survivors.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols emphasized the importance of addressing cold cases and untested rape kits. "Having the funding to be able to continue this testing will help us solve some of the most underreported crimes in Tulsa," he said, expressing gratitude towards the Department of Justice for prioritizing this issue.
Chief Dennis Larsen remarked on the significance of the grant, saying it would aid in processing backlogged kits and potentially solving cold cases. "This funding not only supports our efforts to enhance the efficiency of our forensic services but also reinforces our resolve to ensure that no stone is left unturned in seeking justice," he noted.
The Department of Justice is distributing over $4.4 billion in grants nationwide through its Office of Justice Programs. These funds aim to support efforts reducing violence and crime while improving recidivism rates.
BJA Director Karhlton F. Moore commented on the new SAKI funding awarded to Tulsa, stating it will prioritize victims' voices and advance investigations into cold cases.
For further details about this award and others from OJP, visit their FY24 Grant Awards site.