FOI 255/25

Freedom of information request reference no: 255/25

REQUEST

1. The number of rape kits currently awaiting processing
2. The number of rape kits processed by your force in the past 12 months
3. The average time it take to process a rape kit
4. Whether you force has experienced a rape kit shortage.

CLARIFICATION

By ‘rape kit’ we mean the kits used by SARCs to collect forensic evidence following a rape or sexual assault. Does this help? 

By ‘processing’ we mean the amount of time it gets a kit that needs to be tested to and from any laboratory. 

By ‘how many have been processed’ we mean, how many have been sent for testing in relation to a case. 

RESPONSE

We consulted with our Joint Scientific Investigation Unit (JSIU) who have provided the following information regarding your request.

Question 1 & 2

We have had 24 submissions into JSIU. 24 have been sent to the labs and we have had results so far for 23 of them.

Please note, submissions are made and received on a daily basis meaning the number would be a “rolling” figure. It may be possible to give a figure for the number awaiting examination for a single day but this wouldn’t take into account any anomalies/ spontaneous/irregular issues.

Question 3

South Wales Police does not hold the information to answer this part of your request. Under the Freedom of Information Act (2000) we are not obliged to create information in order to comply with a request. We are only able to provide recorded information, we do not hold information on averages. Please see below:

‘’Information is defined in section 84 of the Act as 'information recorded in any form'. The Act therefore only extends to requests for recorded information. It does not require public authorities to answer questions generally; only if they already hold the answers in recorded form. The Act does not extend to requests for information about policies or their implementation, or the merits or demerits of any proposal or action - unless, of course, the answer to any such request is already held in recorded form."

Question 4

There are currently no kit shortages at South Wales Police. We recall there was a lack of one particular collection module several years ago however that was an issue with manufacturer supply.