WSP Expands Efforts to Tackle Firearms Forensics Backlog

Washington State Patrol works to clear firearms forensic testing backlog

The Brief

WSP takes steps to address growing firearms forensics backlog

WSP is expanding its firearms forensics team after its backlog hit 955 cases, with current wait times nearing 13 months. The agency aims to double testing capacity by 2026.

WSP Takes Steps to Address Growing Firearms Forensics Backlog – MasonWebTV.com

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) Crime Laboratory Division (CLD) provides high-quality forensic science services for all criminal justice partner agencies within the State of Washington. Four of the agency’s six labs (Vancouver, Tacoma, Seattle, and Spokane) offer firearm forensics services where scientists examine both firearms and ammunition components in criminal investigations. The demand for those...

WSP Expands Efforts to Tackle Firearms Forensics Backlog

Washington State Patrol OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is taking significant steps to reduce a growing backlog of firearms forensic cases. With demand for firearm and ammunition examinations increasing, four of WSP’s six crime labs – located in Vancouver, Tacoma, Seattle, and Spokane – have been struggling to keep pace, leading to extended case delays. According to WSP, the average number of firearms testing requests over the pa…