The Sconi

Attorney General Josh Kaul has released the 2023 Annual Report for the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Forensic Sciences (DFS) crime laboratories. In his statement, Attorney General Kaul emphasized the importance of the state crime labs in maintaining public safety and ensuring justice in criminal investigations and prosecutions. He highlighted the necessity for investment in staffing through the upcoming state budget.

The report outlines progress made by the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratories, including advancements in infrastructure and technology. A new Laboratory Information Management System is set to improve case tracking and processes, with full implementation expected by 2025. Additionally, construction began on a new Southeast Regional Crime Laboratory, with completion planned for 2026.

In 2023, DFS noted significant trends in drug cases, particularly an increase involving fentanyl or its analogues, totaling 765 cases. Xylazine was detected in 64 cases. More than one-quarter of submissions to the Controlled Substances Unit involved mixtures.

A Legislative Audit Bureau report on WSCL analysis timeliness did not suggest effective measures to reduce turnaround times. This underscores the need for legislative action to authorize additional staffing for crime labs.

Established as an independent division within Wisconsin DOJ in 2019, DFS employs over 190 professionals who provide impartial forensic analysis across various fields such as toxicology and DNA analysis. The division also operates on-call Crime Scene Response Units at each laboratory location to assist law enforcement with major crime scenes.

The Wisconsin State Crime Laboratory remains the only full-service forensic science laboratory system in Wisconsin and is distinct from diagnostic laboratory systems due to unique case circumstances submitted to DFS.

DFS maintains a commitment to quality and excellence in forensic science. Its skilled scientists support crime-solving efforts by processing samples for inclusion in national databases like CODIS, providing expert testimony, and offering technical assistance to law enforcement agencies.