DNA Testing

The Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory began conducting DNA analysis in the year 2000.  Law enforcement agencies from across the state submit evidence to the lab for DNA analysis at no charge.

Crime Lab personnel spent approximately three years preparing for DNA testing.  There were two phases of preparation.  First, a Nebraska DNA database was established and electronically linked to a national DNA database called the Combined DNA Index System or CODIS which is operated by the FBI.  That phase was completed in 1999.  The second phase involved the actual DNA analysis.  It required equipping the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory for DNA analysis, hiring and training personnel, and conducting intense validation studies.  Both phases were accomplished while lab personnel continued to analyze evidence from current cases submitted by law enforcement agencies from across the state.

Funding to establish DNA analysis at the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab was provided by state funds and federal grants.  State funds include approximately $500,000 appropriated by LB 278 for the first two years and an annual cost of approximately $250,000.  The Nebraska State Patrol was also awarded two federal grants from the Department of Justice totaling approximately $415,000.

Any crime that involves the transfer of blood, body fluids, or body tissue could potentially involve DNA testing.  Crimes typically involving DNA samples are murder, sexual assault, and assault.  However, DNA analysis could assist in solving many types of crimes.  DNA analysis could be especially valuable in clearing unsolved crimes known as cold cases.

"I want to thank the legislature and the Governor for their tremendous support throughout the process of setting-up the DNA laboratory," said Colonel Tom Nesbitt, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol.  "I also want to commend our Investigative Services commanders and the Crime Lab staff for their long hours and dedication.  This has been an enormous undertaking and I am confident it will have a significant impact on our crime-fighting capability.  We are pleased to provide this service to local agencies at no charge as part of our commitment to serve them as well as the citizens of Nebraska."

 This advancement ensures the State Patrol Crime Laboratory maintains its status as a state-of-the-art facility and places Nebraska in stride with the FBI and law enforcement agencies in many other states where DNA analysis is being conducted.