A change in Illinois law aims to improve how police respond to sexual assault allegations by requiring officers undergo new training to improve sensitivity toward victims and learn about trauma.
The law also requires police take reports for every allegation, no matter how much time has passed or what jurisdiction it falls under.
Advocates and law enforcement officials say fear and doubt often deter victims from reporting assaults, with as few as 1 in 5 rapes being reported.
The law's new reporting requirements went into effect last year. Training is already underway for recruits in Chicago. Officers investigating sex crimes should be trained within the next two years.
The U.S. Department of Justice criticized Chicago last year for inadequately preparing officers who investigate sex crimes.
