Washington State’s Gun Evidence Backlog Surges to 1,050 Cases
URGENT UPDATE: Washington State is facing a crisis as the backlog for gun evidence testing has skyrocketed to over 1,050 cases, with wait times now stretching to 54 weeks. With demand for forensic analysis surging, police departments are struggling to keep investigations on track, potentially delaying trials and hindering suspect apprehension.
As of July 1, 2024, the Washington State Patrol has reported that its forensic labs in Vancouver, Tacoma, Seattle, and Spokane received an average of 628 requests for firearm testing annually over the past four years. However, the labs have only been able to complete around 418 requests each year. This growing backlog has law enforcement officials concerned about its impact on public safety and ongoing investigations.
Authorities confirm that while larger departments like the King County Sheriff’s Office can conduct some tests independently, they still rely on the state crime lab for more complex analyses. Undersheriff Jesse Anderson indicated that the sheriff’s office utilizes the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network to examine shell casings but acknowledges the delays in obtaining results for critical tests, which can take from six to 18 months.
“This is a challenge for all law enforcement agencies and forensics labs to keep pace with the increasing workload,” Anderson stated. The current situation is further complicated as police and prosecutors can charge suspects based on available evidence but must postpone trials until forensic results are received.
The Washington State Patrol is actively working to address the backlog. Chief John Batiste revealed that the crime lab has added eight forensic scientists focused on gun analysis, effectively doubling their capacity. However, it takes two years to fully train these specialists. As of early August, two new scientists are expected to join the team this month, with the remaining two set to complete their training by the end of the year.
“The number of cases involving firearms in criminal activity has increased, and we must expand our forensic capabilities,” Batiste emphasized. The state patrol aims to reduce the firearm backlog by 35% by next July and 60% by January 2027, with a long-term goal of consistently completing tests within 120 days by 2028.
While efforts are underway to speed up testing, the Washington State Patrol is also grappling with backlogs in blood toxicology and DNA testing, particularly for sexual assault kits. However, a recent audit reported that the backlog of sexual assault testing kits has been “effectively eliminated.”
The community remains anxious as the demand for timely forensic analysis continues to rise, putting immense pressure on law enforcement agencies. With public safety at stake, immediate reforms are crucial to ensure that justice is served without unnecessary delays.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as new information emerges. Stay tuned for further details on how Washington State plans to tackle this urgent issue impacting law enforcement and public safety.
