Vic: DNA testing backlog delaying investigations: opposition
MELBOURNE, April 14 AAP - A backlog in processing DNA samples was delaying some policeinvestigations by up to 18 months, the Victorian opposition said today.
Opposition police spokesman Kim Wells said Melbourne's Forensic Science Centre hada backlog of 3,700 DNA samples which was hampering investigations into rapes, murdersand burglaries.
Mr Wells said there was a lack of scientific staff and police officers at the centre,frustrating investigations and putting lives at risk.
The wait on DNA results for homicide investigations was six to eight weeks, 12 weeksfor rape, and up to 18 months for other crimes such as assault and burglaries, he said.
"Yet the irony is, if you're a police officer suspected of a crime, then DNA resultscan be obtained within two weeks," Mr Wells told AAP.
"I understand the reasons for fast-tracking police-related matters, but it seems unfairand ridiculous that homicide investigations can be delayed by eight weeks."
Mr Wells urged the Bracks government to address the staffing shortage.
"The delays are putting community safety at risk. During that time lapse, some of thesepeople may commit further offences," he said.
AAP svm/pw
KEYWORD: DNA
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