Harris County, Texas, will begin building a cutting-edge forensics tower in two years, allowing its scientists to conduct autopsies and test evidence in a growing number of cases.

The new nine-story Institute of Forensic Sciences facility will have space for additional staff and equipment and the introduction of expanded services at the new tower, including additional ballistics work and latent fingerprint testing.

County officials hope to establish a joint lab with Houston following the Mayor's proposal for a crime lab independent from the police department, but will move forward with their plans regardless of the city's decision.

Source: Houston Chronicle