
Today, Explained The warehouse of forgotten evidence
Aug 16, 2019
Barbara Bradley Hagerty, an investigative reporter whose work on police failures to catch serial rapists has garnered attention, discusses the heartbreaking journeys of survivors and the systemic issues they face. She reveals the staggering backlog of untested rape kits across the U.S. and how cities like Cleveland are tackling these challenges. The conversation highlights the alarming prevalence of serial offenders, the interconnected nature of cases, and the crucial importance of believing victims, especially in the wake of movements like Me Too.
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Amber Mansfield's Case
- Amber Mansfield reported being assaulted by Keith Washington, but police were skeptical due to her past.
- Despite evidence of strangulation, her case was put on hold without investigation.
Police Skepticism
- Mike Sorrow, former head of the sex crimes unit, admitted skepticism towards Amber's case due to her prostitution record.
- He didn't investigate Keith Washington's history, assuming the encounter was consensual.
A Nationwide Problem
- Barbara Bradley Hagerty's investigation revealed Amber's case is typical nationwide.
- Many rape cases are not investigated, making sexual assault the easiest violent crime to get away with.
