The funding aims to enhance the forensic laboratory and support public safety programs, including toxicology case outsourcing, overtime for crime scene and firearms investigators, specialized training and technology for firearms, training of new analysts, system upgrades, digital multimedia outsourcing, and temporary labor to reduce the backlog of cases in Harris County.
The Houston City Council has announced an approval of an additional $1.95 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds for the Houston Forensic Science Center. SUGGESTED:
The funding is dedicated for use in fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024 and also includes last year's previously approved $3 million. - Toxicology Case Outsourcing: $400,000- Firearms Specialized Training/Technology: $900,000- Digital Multimedia Outsourcing: $600,000"I want to thank City Council for approving an additional $1.95 million in ARPA funds for the Houston Forensic Science Center, bringing our total investment to $4.95 million," said Mayor Turner.
Officials said COVID-19 has affected the efficiencies of crime labs nationwide to solve crimes, get perpetrators off the streets, and seek closure for victims and their families. Unfortunately, this is true of the Houston Forensic Science Center, specifically with crime and employee turnover. Between 2020 and 2021, HFSC responded to more than 900 gun-related incidents, which included homicides, aggravated assaults, officer-involved shootings, death investigations, and aggravated robbery.
"We appreciate all the support the City has provided to HFSC. COVID put an enormous strain on the entire criminal justice system which we will feel the impacts for years," said Dr. Peter Stout, HFSC’s President & CEO. "The funding from One Safe Houston has allowed us to make significant progress on multiple court backlogs. With the vote today, we will be positioned to continue progress and begin to tackle one of the biggest backlog challenges in firearms.
Officials said the City already provides $28.5 million annually towards the Houston Forensic Science Center operations. This additional investment of $4.95 million of ARPA funds will assist in recruiting employees and solving crimes in areas with the highest crime rates.
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