FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State Police has received more than $172,000 in federal funding to continue work aimed at reducing the backlog of untested sexual assault kits and advancing investigations tied to cold sexual assault cases across the commonwealth.

Gov. Andy Beshear announced the funding Thursday, saying it will support the ongoing Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, which works to identify suspects through DNA testing and provide investigative support in sexual assault cases.

“Our SAKI team has delivered real, meaningful results for survivors and victims of sexual assault in the commonwealth,” Beshear said in a statement. “Every single Kentuckian impacted by a crime deserves closure and the ability to seek justice and this grant funding will allow us to continue making progress.”

The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, will support Kentucky State Police efforts to analyze sexual assault kits, process DNA evidence and assist in identifying suspects.

The initiative also works with victims, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and community partners to strengthen investigations and prosecutions.

Kentucky State Police created its SAKI investigative team in 2021. Since then, the program has received more than $4.8 million in federal grant funding, including prior awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023, according to a news release.

“Our people are working with law enforcement across the commonwealth to solve cases as well as bring closure and a feeling of safety to our people through the SAKI program,” KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. said. “This grant funding allows us to continue that work.”

Officials said the initiative has already contributed to case resolutions, including a conviction in a 20-year-old sexual assault case following a 2023 arrest tied to DNA evidence.