Why Does it Take 240 Days?

As a local, private DNA collector  and to maintain a level of expert knowledge - I monitor the activity at the local, state, national and international level of the DNA testing industry.  I am always amazed at the amount of time a "State" lab takes in completing a DNA test vs. a private laboratory.  In the below post, from a local Philadelphia paper - they indicate that over 500 tests went incomplete and that it took an average of 240 days turn around time to complete those DNA test that they could complete?   Is that a simple DNA Profile - how many hands touched the case - from original collector - to state lab tech - to state Phd then back to collector then entry into CODIS - really 240 days.  Is the perpetrator out on the streets in all that time or is he/she sitting in jail - either way out on the street - you and I are in danger - in jail and not the right perp - he/she has not been given a due justice in a speedy trial.   Understandably, the standard at State labs have to be strictly followed but most of the private laboratories also have attained national and international accrediting standards - which make for accuracy and reliability as well.  Hate to be a naysayer of government workers, but this DNA collector was at a recent event, with men and women who were either former law enforcement, FBI, etc., and when I asked an innocent but simple question - Why does it take the State Lab so long - after a few uncomfortable shrugs and giggles - the surprising response was - dragging out cases means job security.  Not coming from the government employee mentality - I never did understand why they wouldn't do a good job because they are being paid salaries and benefits and have chosen to work for the State because they have an honest desire to protect citizens???  At this age, I am still naive!  I don't picture scientists taking something so important as determining a perp's DNA - and delaying results - so that they have jobs until their desired retirement date.

On the flip side, when I work with the private AABB, CAP, CLIA, NYSDOH, ASCLD accredited labs - for simple paternity tests to the more involved forensic cases, I know that my DNA samples, paperwork, photographs are checked and doubled checked for accuracy.  I know that the lab is competing with at least 25 other private laboratories who have the same accredititations and so they want to provide a product that is both reliable and accurate and more importantly, timely.

so, whether you need a simple paternity test or a genetic profile from an object at a crime scene, think of bringing in a local, private collector to at least jump start the DNA testing process - I know I would feel safer that the perp is off the street faster than 240 days!

QUOTE FROM PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER

State police have said their DNA lab last year received 1924 cases and completed 1412, with an average turnaround time of 240 days. The department received 23938 samples from convicted offenders for testing, and the state now has more than 240000 ...

UNQUOTE FROM PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER