Due to an increased focus on DNA testing that began in 2007, Maryland has succeeded in clearing a 24,000 sample backlog and arrested 267 suspects in the process.

Arrests since March 2007 from the database include 122 burglary or robbery suspects, 16 homicide suspects, and more than 100 individuals wanted for sex offenses.

“The priority Governor Martin O’Malley placed on guaranteeing the effective use of DNA for fighting crime in Maryland is the reason our backlog was eliminated and our state’s DNA database is operating with an efficiency never before seen in its 16-year history,” Maryland State Police Superintendent Colonel Terrence B. Sheridan said.

Source: The Gov Monitor