Texas DPS Reported Record Forensic Testing Volumes

The state laboratory division processed over 113,000 forensic requests while celebrating National Forensic Science Week.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Isometric editorial illustration of a steel centrifuge rotor and glass pipettes on a laboratory workbench, representing forensic testing workflows. — The Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory Division processed over 113,000 forensic requests this year, citing record volumes for the statewide agency. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should law enforcement agencies increase the use of rapid DNA testing technology for criminal investigations?

The Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory Division marked National Forensic Science Week by reporting record-setting forensic testing volumes for the past year. Across its 16 accredited laboratories, the agency processed 113,259 forensic requests and uploaded nearly 150,000 DNA samples to the national index.

Why it matters

Increased forensic testing capacity is critical to processing sexual assault evidence and maintaining timely criminal investigations. Departmental recognition of these efforts highlights the importance of laboratory workflows in supporting law enforcement and justice outcomes.

The Texas Department of Public Safety processed 113,259 forensic testing requests over the past year. The agency also tracked 72,549 sexual assault kits and cleared 725 previously untested kits using supplemental grant funding.

The players

Texas Department of Public Safety

This state agency oversees law enforcement, crime laboratory operations, and forensic investigations across Texas.

Office of the Governor

This state executive office provides supplemental grant funding to support forensic programs and public safety initiatives.

Texas Legislature

This state body mandates oversight and receives reports on the efficacy of pilot programs like the agency's Rapid DNA initiative.

The details

The Crime Laboratory Division, which employs 712 personnel, recently launched the Texas CLR Connect portal to modernize record transfers. Additionally, the agency has initiated a pilot program for Rapid DNA technology at booking facilities to expedite offender identification.

December 1, 2025: The Limited Consent for DNA Testing Program was implemented.
August 31, 2026: The sexual assault evidence tracking program completed its seventh year.
September 2026: National Forensic Science Week events and laboratory tours were held.
January 1, 2028: The deadline for reporting Rapid DNA pilot program findings to the Texas Legislature.

Legal Context

The agency's integration with the Combined DNA Index System mirrors the standard forensic protocols used by law enforcement agencies nationwide. The consistent uploading of nearly 150,000 samples represents the state's role in the broader national effort to centralize offender data.

Residents may benefit from accelerated forensic processing that allows law enforcement to finalize investigations more quickly. The expansion of DNA testing technology in booking facilities aims to improve public safety by ensuring more accurate offender identification.

The takeaway

The implementation of automated portals and Rapid DNA technology underscores a shift toward digital forensic management in the state. These advancements are expected to improve case throughput and reduce backlogs for essential testing requests.

What happens next

The Texas Department of Public Safety is scheduled to report findings from the second year of its Rapid DNA pilot program to the Texas Legislature no later than January 1, 2028.