CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. — Cumberland County commissioners voted 2-1 to use county funds to complete an addition to the county's forensics lab, aiming to expedite crime-solving processes.
The district attorney said the forensics lab is one of only a few certified at the county level and emphasized that the new lab will help solve crimes in a timely manner.
News 8 got a look inside the gun lab, showcasing what the $1.5 million in grants has built so far. Initially, the project was expected to be fully funded by the state, but the district attorney requested an additional $265,000 to cover equipment and tools.
Currently, firearms are sent to the Pennsylvania State Police for testing, a process that can take months.
The district attorney said having an on-site lab will significantly reduce turnaround time.
"The police here in Cumberland County do seize a significant number of firearms. Those firearms need to be tested. I compared a lot to the rape kits that were sitting on shelves for years here in Cumberland County and other places. A lot of the firearms that are taken are not processed. We need to have those firearms processed," said Sean McCormack, District Attorney of Cumberland County.
The new gun lab is expected to be complete by Fall 2025.