HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Pennsylvania State Police have deployed 15 fully automated rapid DNA analyzers to troops statewide, a move the agency says will let investigators generate actionable genetic leads in a fraction of the time required by traditional lab testing.
Rapid DNA technology processes collected samples on site and can return results in as little as 90 minutes. In its first week of use, troopers obtained a blood sample from an ATM-tampering scene and, within two hours, received a database match that identified an investigative lead, according to the department.
“This program represents significant advancements in our forensic capabilities,” Colonel Christopher Paris, commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police, said. “Rapid DNA analysis can expedite the development of investigative leads, assist in suspect identification, and help exclude individuals with greater speed. Aside from investigative efficiency, this technology provides accuracy, fairness, and better outcomes for the communities we serve.”
Only members of the agency’s Forensic Service Units who complete required training are authorized to operate the devices; laboratory personnel verify all matches. PSP said it follows all state and federal DNA-collection and privacy guidelines.
Gov. Josh Shapiro has backed the rollout as part of a broader plan to equip and expand state law enforcement. Shapiro’s fiscal-year 2025-26 budget proposal would remove the statutory cap on PSP staffing and allocate $16 million for four cadet classes to train nearly 400 additional troopers.
State police leaders said the rapid DNA program aligns with those priorities by shortening case timelines, improving clearance rates and strengthening public trust.
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