Harrisburg, PA – As part of National Forensic Science Week, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is recognizing the scientists, forensic examiners, technicians, and support professionals whose expertise strengthens criminal investigations and supports the pursuit of justice across the Commonwealth.
The PSP Bureau of Forensic Services (BFS) operates six regional forensic laboratories and a dedicated Forensic DNA Division, providing scientific testing and investigative support to state, municipal and federal law enforcement agencies throughout Pennsylvania. Its areas of expertise include DNA, serology, drug chemistry, toxicology, firearms and toolmarks, latent prints and trace evidence.
Each year, BFS examines evidence associated with tens of thousands of criminal investigations. In 2025, the bureau completed more than 35,000 cases while providing forensic services to more than 900 law enforcement agencies across the Commonwealth.
Every day, our forensic professionals apply science, technology and specialized skills to evidence that can be critical to an investigation,” said Major Colette M. Smith, Pennsylvania State Police, Director of Bureau of Forensic Services. “Their work demands precision, objectivity, and an unwavering commitment to quality every time. We are proud to recognize the extraordinary women and men whose expertise aids investigators in uncovering facts and providing critical information to prosecutors and courts that ultimately helps solve cases and bring justice for victims and their families.”
PSP is also continuing to expand the use of innovative technology to provide investigators with timely forensic information. Through its Rapid DNA initiative, qualifying DNA samples can be processed outside a traditional laboratory setting, with DNA profiles potentially developed in as little as 90 minutes.
The first statewide program in the nation was launched by the PSP in 2025 and initially involved deploying 15 automated genetic analyzers across the Commonwealth. It was expanded in 2026 to provide municipal law enforcement agencies with access to Rapid DNA capabilities for qualifying, time-sensitive investigations, including homicides, assaults, and burglaries.
Since the initiative began, PSP has reported that more than 354 samples have been processed, yielding 190 DNA profiles and 163 investigative matches. Rapid DNA complements traditional forensic laboratory analysis, with more complex examinations continuing to be conducted through established laboratory processes.
As PSP expands access to new technology, it is also investing in the facilities and resources needed to support the future of forensic science in Pennsylvania. A new PSP forensic laboratory facility in Greensburg is scheduled to open in early 2027, providing additional modern laboratory space and strengthening the Commonwealth’s forensic capabilities.
This expansion reflects the Shapiro Administration’s continued commitment to ensuring that law enforcement has the tools and resources it needs to protect our communities.
Since taking office, the Governor has secured funding for nearly 2,000 additional police officers on the beat and expanded afterschool and community-based violence intervention programs. These efforts are delivering results – violent crime is down 16 percent statewide – including a 39 percent drop in homicides, a 45 percent decrease in robberies involving a firearm, and a 25 percent reduction in firearm assaults.
Governor Shapiro's 2026-27 state budget continues to support PSP’s mission to protect the safety of Pennsylvania communities by securing $16.2 million to fund four additional Pennsylvania State Police cadet classes. Since taking office, the Governor has secured funding for 16 cadet classes to train over 1,600 new Pennsylvania State Troopers. To date, 673 cadets have graduated and joined the ranks of PSP under Governor Shapiro’s leadership.
National Forensic Science Week provides an opportunity to shine a light on the professionals who bring science to the criminal justice process and whose work often goes unseen by the public. Their dedication and expertise can help provide answers to victims and families, strengthen investigations, and ensure that evidence is examined with accuracy, integrity, and objectivity.
PSP is proud to recognize its forensic scientists, examiners, technicians and support personnel and thank them for the important work they perform every day in service to the criminal justice system and the citizens of Pennsylvania.
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit the PSP website.