Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is expanding their successful Rapid DNA program to municipal law enforcement agencies, providing local law enforcement with quicker access to critical forensic technology. Rapid DNA instruments are capable of developing a DNA profile from a qualifying sample in as little as 90 minutes, giving investigators timely and actionable information about potential suspects during the early stages of an investigation. Since its inception last year, the PSP has used Rapid DNA instrumentation to process over 354 samples which developed 190 DNA profiles, leading to 163 matches that have aided PSP investigations.
Providing Rapid DNA services to municipal police agencies enables the swift processing of forensic evidence in cases such as homicides, assaults, burglaries, and other qualifying offenses. These services help investigators advance cases more efficiently, accelerating suspect identification while also allowing for the timely exclusion of individuals from investigative focus.
We are committed to delivering exemplary services to the criminal justice community and take pride in staying at the forefront of technological advancements,” said Major Colette M. Smith, Pennsylvania State Police, Director of Bureau of Forensic Services. “We look forward to supporting our law enforcement partners in advancing their investigations and enhancing their ability to protect and serve the citizens of the Commonwealth.”
The Rapid DNA program is designed to complement existing laboratory services and provide information in time-sensitive situations where immediate results can significantly impact public safety. More complex analyses will continue to be handled through conventional DNA analysis.
This expansion reflects the Shapiro Administration’s continued commitment to ensuring law enforcement has the tools and resources they need 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 12 percent statewide, and fatal gun violence has dropped 42 percent.
Governor Shapiro’s 2026-27 budget proposal continues to support PSP’s mission to protect the safety of Pennsylvania communities by investing $16.2 million in four additional cadet classes, approximately 380 troopers, and by calling for the complete elimination of the current statutory cap, which limits the number of troopers PSP can hire.
Agencies that would like to submit evidence for Rapid DNA analysis should contact their local PSP Forensic Unit.
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit the PSP website.