PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Rhode Island is receiving federal funding to help the state crime lab reduce its backlog of DNA casework and bring justice to victims faster.

Rhode Island’s congressional delegation announced Thursday that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded $600,000 to the Rhode Island Department of Health’s Center for Forensic Sciences.

The delegation said the state’s crime lab will now be able to process cases within 30 days for violent crimes and 90 days for non-violent crimes.

“This federal funding will help the state’s crime lab effectively process DNA samples, solve more cases, and help law enforcement bring perpetrators to justice,” Sen. Jack Reed said.

The money will also help prevent future backlogs by funding upgrades to laboratory equipment and management systems.

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