The Department of Public Safety’s Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory (SCDL) and the Anchorage Police Department (APD) signed a lease to consolidate crime lab services. The lease was signed following the Anchorage Assembly vote last month to approve a lease agreement for $1 a year for five years, with the option to extend. The construction of the lab spaces will occur with a view to having APD employees working in the SCDL to national accreditation standards by this fall. APD will be bringing their own equipment with them but will also have access to state equipment and resources. The consolidation will give the SCDL the capacity to eventually start utilizing National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). Additionally, the consolidation allows for less duplication of efforts and more cross pollination of thoughts, ideas, and standard operating procedures.
“This is a good decision for the State and its citizens,” said Chief David Kanaris, State Crime Detection Laboratory. “We provide scientific support to the criminal justice system to help create a safer Alaska. Integrating APD’s lab into ASCDL standardizes forensic science practices throughout the state – something that has been highlighted as a need in high profile national reports. It’s an exciting opportunity for State and Municipality staff work closely, and learn from each other, contributing to the common purpose.”
“Moving the Anchorage Police Department’s Crime Lab to join forces with our law enforcement partners at the Department of Public Safety’s Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory will help us maximize efficiency as an agency, and in turn serve as a great benefit to the community,” said Chief Justin Doll, Anchorage Police Department. “We’re very excited about this move as it will make more forensic resources immediately available, expand our capabilities, and create a more integrated work environment for our staff. Working in the SCDL takes advantage of previous investment in public safety by utilizing existing capacity and creates more space for other APD units at our Elmore location who undoubtedly need it as our department has grown over the last few years.”
“This cooperative and coordinated effort will allow the pooling of resources, information, expertise, and equipment,” said Commissioner Amanda Price, Department of Public Safety. “Additionally, this effort will promote improved quality, accuracy, and consistency of the testing of forensic evidence for the people of Alaska.”
Republished courtesy of Alaska Department of Public Service.