CRBC News
Culture
Society
Security
Health
Conflict
Science
Technology
Politics
Environment
Lifestyle
Economy

NOPD Crime Lab Earns Full ANAB Accreditation; DNA Testing to Return

The New Orleans Police Department Crime Lab has earned full accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board after a thorough external audit of its procedures, equipment validation, casework and training.

The certification expands the lab's scope beyond firearms and crime‑scene work to include Drug Chemistry and Friction Ridge (latent prints), and restores Forensic Biology (serology) for the first time since Hurricane Katrina.

Officials say the lab's DNA testing facility is expected to be operational by Dec. 31, 2027, improving local forensic capacity and court-ready evidence.

12:45 AM, 11/22/2025Security
NOPD Crime Lab Earns Full ANAB Accreditation; DNA Testing to Return

The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Crime Lab has received full accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) for the first time, officials announced. The recognition follows a comprehensive external audit of the lab's procedures, equipment validation, casework, staff training and overall quality management.

Previously, accreditation for the NOPD lab covered only firearms analysis and crime-scene investigation. The newly expanded scope now includes Drug Chemistry and Friction Ridge (latent fingerprints), and restores Forensic Biology (serology), a capability that has been unavailable since Hurricane Katrina.

Why this matters

Full ANAB accreditation indicates that independent assessors have verified the lab meets national standards for technical competence and quality assurance. That verification strengthens the reliability of forensic evidence used in investigations and court proceedings.

Dr. Shamika Kelley, Director of the Crime Lab, said: "This builds confidence in the forensic evidence used in investigations and court proceedings and shows the city's commitment to trustworthy, scientifically sound forensic services."

Officials expect the Crime Lab's DNA testing laboratory to be operational by Dec. 31, 2027. Restoring in-house DNA capabilities should speed case processing and reduce the need to rely on outside laboratories.

Maintaining ANAB accreditation requires ongoing compliance with national standards and regular reassessments, ensuring continued oversight of the lab's quality management and technical practices.

Similar Articles

Trending