In 2025 only 14 percent of rape cases in San Francisco were closed, according to an ongoing investigation from the SF Standard. That’s half the national rate. While the procedures for administering and processing rape kit tests has improved greatly in San Francisco over the past decade, cuts to the special victims unit and other factors have resulted in fewer investigations into alleged rapists, leaving victims waiting as their cases sit inactive. We talk about the challenges of investigating rape cases, where the SFPD is falling short and whether the new scrutiny could lead to reforms inside the police department.
Guests:
- Anya Schultz, investigative reporter, The SF Standard
- Dr. Janelle White – executive director of SF Women Against Rape and teacher