ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Data shows that thousands of rape kits in Maryland have not been tested.
Citing figures obtained under the state Public Information Act, The Baltimore Sunreports that Maryland police have left over 3,500 of the kits untested.
Advocates for rape victims say that number shows that police are not investigating all sexual assaults cases thoroughly.
State lawmakers required police departments to report their figures this year to the attorney general's office and to explain why kits remain untested.
Law enforcement agencies say victims declining to pursue charges, or prosecutors deciding against taking a case are just some of the reasons for not testing kits. Other reasons included the victim already knew the suspect or wanted to remain anonymous.
Montgomery County police reported the most untested rape kits, with 1,165.