Ohio AG wants uniform rules on rape-kit testing

CLEVELAND (AP) — Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray says the state should have uniform rules on the testing of evidence from rape cases.

Ohio’s top law enforcement official says there’s now a “patchwork quilt” of local policies on whether rape evidence kits are submitted for DNA analysis or other testing.

The kits contain samples of blood, saliva, hair or other evidence taken by hospitals when a sexual assault is reported.

The police chief in Cleveland has decided to have testing done on all rape kits there.

Supporters say that will help solve more cases. Critics say the expanded testing wastes money.

Cordray says Ohio lawmakers, law enforcement officials and victim advocates need to have a dialogue about the way rape evidence is handled statewide.