Eleven arrests were made in connection with 15 cold case sexual assault cases, Durham Police Department announced Tuesday. Some of the cases date as far back as 1984.

The arrests were made by the department's Cold Case Sexual Assault Unit, which is funded through a $1 million grant by the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative. The grant provides the department with resources to investigate cold case files as well as test backlogged sexual assault kits, WAVY reports.

"Victims and their families can rest a little easier tonight knowing that the individuals who allegedly perpetrated these crimes against them are now behind bars and will soon have their day in court," said Durham Police Chief C.J. Davis.

Chief Davis said he was especially proud of the Cold Case Unit and their dedication and passion for their work.

"Our Cold Case Unit remains committed to the victims in each and every one of these cases." he said. "They work tirelessly to make sure that we offer a victim-centered, trauma-informed investigation where the victim decides how they want to proceed with their case in pursuit of justice. Their dedication and concern for the victims in these cases is unwavering."

North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein said the state is working toward testing the backlogged kits, but a capacity issue with labs mean only a certain number can be handled at one time. However, he said, the state is making "excellent progress," acquiring grant funds and $6 million to outsource the kits.

"[Tuesday's] news underscores North Carolina's commitment to getting justice for survivors of sexual assault," said Stein. "Durham is making great strides toward testing the kits in its custody — and that's resulting in arrests."

If you or someone you know has experienced domestic, sexual, and family violence or human trafficking and is seeking shelter or support services, visit durhamcrisisresponse.org.

Photo: Getty Images

Storm Watch

About Storm Watch