Virginia forensic scientists achieve 10,000th cold hit

Last month, scientists at the Virginia Department of Forensics Science achieved the state's 10,000th DNA database "cold hit."

 

Rapid processing of casework and reference DNA samples using standard protocols

Eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming DNA extraction procedures and reduced amplification times saves more than two hours per sample.

Rape kit legislation headed to Tennessee governor

The proposal is one of at least three rape kit-related proposals.

 

Expand DNA tests to enhance safety in Colorado

Proposed bill would add 13 serious misdemeanor charges, but would require convictions before DNA screening.

 

Ohio has tested 7,000 rape kits, found 2,500+ DNA matches

2011 program allowed untested kits to be tested for free.

 

Washington State Senate OKs post-conviction preservation of DNA

Bill would require DNA collected in any felony case charged as a violent or sex offense to be preserved through the length of the offender's sentence.

 

Rapid DNA saves time and investigation expenses at law enforcement agencies

Fewer samples and shorter lag times mean less resources wasted in the end.

 

In-house tests speed up crime, DNA investigations in Florida

The Orange County Sheriff's Office can now pre-screen DNA samples in-house with the opening of its new $135,000 DNA Labs.

 

Illinois speaker wants $6 million increase to speed up testing of rape kits

Increased funding is needed to help process evidence in sexual assault cases and other violent crimes.

 

District Attorney of New York State invites grant applications for $35M rape kit testing initiative

On the first day of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Manhattan DA's Office releases RFP soliciting grant applications from jurisdictions around the country

 

Proposal to boost crime lab output with pay raises, less staff in Arizona

Big changes could be in store for state crime labs to help investigators solve more cases and improve safety.

 

Wisconsin implements expanded DNA testing

Wisconsin's expanded DNA collection regime, which includes a cheek swab of people arrested for certain crimes, goes into effect April 1, no fooling.

 

Bill to extend statute of limitations for rape cases clears Ohio Senate

Prosecutors have five years to file rape or sexual battery charges if DNA evidence is found to implicate someone in the case, regardless of when the crime took place.