The bill establishes a DNA exception rule specifically for victims of rape by amending existing laws to ensure that DNA evidence is preserved and can be utilized in legal proceedings. It mandates that all DNA kits related to such cases must be retained for a minimum of 15 years, thereby extending the time frame for potential evidence retrieval. Additionally, the bill allows for the prosecution of certain sexual offenses, even if the statute of limitations has expired, provided that the identity of the alleged offender is established through DNA evidence collected at the time of the crime.

Specifically, the bill amends Section 97B of Chapter 41 of the General Laws by inserting provisions that require the retention of DNA kits and clarifying that law enforcement can act regardless of the statute of limitations. Furthermore, it modifies Section 63 of Chapter 277 to allow for the filing of indictments or complaints for specific sexual offenses at any time if the perpetrator's identity is confirmed through DNA evidence, thus enhancing the legal recourse available to victims of sexual crimes.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 277-63