Congressman Fulcher Introduces Resolution Recognizing National Forensic Science Week

Press Release

This week, Congressman Russ Fulcher introduced a resolution to recognize the crucial role that forensic science laboratories serve in fulfilling our country's promise of equal justice and due process. Congressman Mike Simpson is an original cosponsor of this resolution in the House, while Idaho Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo introduced a companion resolution in the Senate, which was unanimously approved and can be found in its entirety here.

Forensic science plays a key role in our criminal justice system, aiding in the investigation of crimes, the prosecution and conviction of the correct perpetrators of crimes, and the exoneration of innocent individuals falsely accused. Furthermore, they provide critical support to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies by partnering to build and maintain criminal databases relating to latent prints, DNA, and other information relevant to criminal cases.

Idaho is a leader in the field of forensic science, as demonstrated by:

Idaho State Police Forensic Services has been awarded the Foresight Maximus Award for 2020. This award recognizes the top performing forensic laboratories in the world that are operating at 90 percent or better of peak efficiency.
Idaho was the first state in the country to fully implement a sexual assault kit tracking system. Led by Idaho State Police forensic services, this system provides greater public accountability and transparency, and tools for victims and law enforcement to create a better criminal justice system.
Idaho has improved turnaround time in every discipline, especially in the chemistry discipline that stands at less than 15 days.
"National Forensic Science Week is an opportunity for Americans to learn why forensic science is a bedrock of our law enforcement and criminal justice systems. The work performed by forensic science laboratories enable the men and women in these fields to do their jobs, while ensuring that every American's right to a fair trial is secured," commented Congressman Fulcher.

The National Forensic Science Week will encourage elected officials to tour forensic science laboratories and open up dialogue about the needs and capabilities of the field.

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