Evidence-tampering accusations in NHL case shed light on rape investigations, professor says

LAWRENCE — Lawyers and police involved in a sexual assault case in which NHL player Patrick Kane is a suspect have disagreed over the handling of evidence, including a rape kit. Thomas Eoannou, the alleged victim's attorney, said someone left an evidence bag at her mother's containing identifying evidence and the rape kit first used when the woman reported the assault. He called for an independent investigation to determine how the breach happened.

Erie County Central Police Services said Tuesday afternoon that all evidence was accounted for in its original packaging. Kane has not been charged. Eoannou quit the case Thursday night, saying he is no longer comfortable representing the accuser after the way her mother reported finding the evidence bag.

Corey Rayburn Yung, a criminal law professor at the University of Kansas School of Law, is available to speak with media about the case, handling of evidence, mishandling of rape kits and reporting of rape statistics. Yung’s research focuses on criminal law, sex crimes and judicial decision-making.

Yung has published research stating that more than 1 million rape cases have gone undocumented in the United States during the past two decades. The study analyzed data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report. His scholarship has been cited by several federal courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.

To schedule and interview, contact Mike Krings at 785-864-8860 or mkrings@ku.edu