Called the “gold standard for evidence investigation,” a state-of-the-art forensic laboratory joined the state’s toolbox in the war on crime.
The Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences opened its Huntsville Regional Laboratory and Medical Facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday. The 25,000-square-foot facility will help provide investigators from more than 450 Alabama law enforcement agencies with access to the latest forensic technology and scientific advancements in the field.
“Our work touches every community,” said Department of Forensic Sciences Director Angelo Della Manna. “Our work touches every community in every city in every county in this state. And we take our responsibility to provide the highest quality forensic testing services seriously. We’re proud of the work we do on behalf of Alabama citizens each and every day.”
State and local elected officials were proud to join law enforcement at the ceremony.
“In 2020, I requested that the Legislature approve $11 million to construct a new lab in a medical facility here,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “The previous laboratory was built almost 60 years ago. In 2023, I worked with the Alabama Legislature to secure another $4 million to outfit this facility with the very latest in testing opportunities and equipment.
“This new complex was designed and built to capitalize on efficiency, increase laboratory capacity, and utilize new forensic technologies. With these improvements, Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences personnel will not only continue to be the gold standard for evidence investigation in our state but also a benefit when called upon by our neighboring states and our federal partners.”
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall spoke to the valuable asset the lab will be in the fight against crime.
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“It is taking fentanyl dealers and putting them behind bars because we are able to test that product that comes in here to confirm that, in fact, it’s an illegal drug,” he said. “We’re able to make sure that we can vindicate those who are being investigated to know that they are not somebody who may have committed a crime. To make sure that we’re targeting the offender and not those who could potentially be wrongfully charged.
“And let’s also acknowledge the work that we do to help solve violent crimes across our state and to provide justice for victims.”
Marshall referenced a 25-year-old cold case murder in Ozark that he tried last year to demonstrate the importance of forensic technology at places like the new lab.
“The prevailing evidence in that case was purely developed as a result of the forensic techniques and the talents of the people of the state,” he said. “And providing those individuals with the opportunity to show their best work allows for families to get the justice they ultimately deserve.
“Understand the work that occurs here is truly remarkable and it will allow law enforcement and prosecutors to provide justice.”
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
