Marty Goddard’s groundbreaking work transformed how sexual assault cases are handled
Chicago: Back in the early 1970s, the city was facing a serious issue with sexual assaults. Around 16,000 people were attacked, but only a small fraction reported it. Most offenders got away with their crimes.
That’s when Marty Goddard stepped in. She was a passionate advocate who saw how victims were often ignored. The police had a pretty grim view of women who reported assaults, thinking many were just lying or seeking revenge.
Marty, a divorced woman with a strong vision, decided to change that. She created the first standardized rape kit, which included everything needed to collect evidence properly. It had swabs, vials, and even instructions for medical staff.
Her story is detailed in a book by journalist Pagan Kennedy, who highlights how Marty sparked a movement in forensic science. The rape kit became a crucial tool in bringing justice to victims.
Initially, the police were skeptical. They thought her idea was crazy. But after some convincing, they started to see the value in her work. Unfortunately, credit for the kit was often taken by others, which was frustrating for Marty.
Despite the challenges, she kept pushing forward. She even got support from Hugh Hefner, who provided funding to help develop the kits. This was a big step in getting the kits into hospitals across Chicago.
Over time, the rape kit became a game-changer in how sexual assault cases were prosecuted. It helped victims feel supported and gave them a voice in the courtroom.
Sadly, Marty faced her own struggles. She was a victim of sexual violence herself and lived a reclusive life in her later years. She passed away in 2015, but her legacy lives on.
Thanks to her efforts, the conversation around sexual assault has changed. Victims are now treated with respect, and the message is clear: rape is a crime, and it deserves to be taken seriously.
