Kentucky State Police receive $172,000 grant to support sexual assault investigations

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — Andy Beshear announced more than $172,000 in federal funding has been awarded to the Kentucky State Police to continue efforts aimed at solving sexual assault cases and supporting victims.

The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, will support the agency’s investigative team in analyzing sexual assault kits and identifying suspects through DNA testing.

Officials said the program works with victims, law enforcement agencies and prosecutors to advance investigations and pursue cases. Since its creation in 2021, the initiative has received more than $4.8 million in federal funding.

State officials said the grant will help continue efforts to address previously untested evidence, bring closure to victims and improve public safety across the commonwealth.