COLUMBUS, Ohio — A woman has filed a federal lawsuit accusing Columbus police and other government entities of failing to properly investigate her reported rape for decades, ultimately contributing to the dismissal of criminal charges against the suspect.
The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court, identifies the woman as “Jane Doe” and alleges authorities failed to pursue investigative leads following the 1994 assault, despite information she provided about the man she believed was responsible.
According to court filings, DNA evidence was collected after the attack, but the lawsuit claims investigators did not take additional steps that may have identified the suspect earlier.
The suit also alleges inaccurate information was included in investigative records and argues that the handling of the case resulted in years of inaction.
The suspect was eventually identified through DNA evidence and arrested in 2024. However, the criminal case was dismissed in 2025 after a judge ruled the lengthy delay violated the defendant’s constitutional right to a speedy trial.
In addition to claims against the City of Columbus and Franklin County, the lawsuit alleges the victim’s identity was improperly disclosed following the dismissal of the criminal case.
The woman is seeking monetary damages and a jury trial. The City of Columbus has acknowledged the lawsuit and said it is reviewing the complaint. Officials have declined further comment while the litigation remains pending.
The allegations outlined in the lawsuit have not been proven in court.
