A local DNA database started four years ago in Palm Bay, Fla., as an alternative to the state’s backlogged crime labs is quicker, cheaper and more efficient that the state program, reports Florida Today. Palm Bay was among the first municipal departments in Florida to train its officers to collect DNA, and the pilot program is now being adopted by other agencies nationwide.
The DNA kits used by Palm Bay cost $100, compared to the $800 for DNA analysis charged by other state-approved labs. The average wait to get results is 57 days, compared with six months or more from Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Palm Bay Police Chief Doug Muldoon said he envisions the collection of genetic material becoming as common for local patrol officers as fingerprinting.