“Rape kits,” or sexual assault evidence kits (SAEK), were invented by Louis R. Vitullo, a Chicago police sergeant. Vitullo’s granddaughter, Dr. Tristin Engels, wrote about his life, career and influence in her recent book, “The Power of Truth: The Life of Louis R. Vitullo and the Legacy of the Rape Kit.” Dr. Engels joins me tonight to talk about her “Papa,” his legacy and the shocking backlog of unprocessed rape kits.
Please be aware that this interview contains discussion of sexual violence, sexual assault and abuse.