Lax oversight found at some forensic labs

Again!

Charges of negligence and misconduct at some police forensic-evidence labs remain unchecked because of lax oversight allowed by the Justice Department, an internal audit concludes.

Critics say the gaps raise questions about the accuracy of DNA evidence used to convict or clear suspects in criminal cases.

The audit, released Friday, found that the Justice Department doesn't require allegations of wrongdoing at state and local police labs to be reported to independent investigators. Moreover, 34 percent of independent investigators charged with overseeing the labs lacked the authority, ability or resources to do so, according to the report issued by Justice Department Inspector General Glenn A. Fine.

Report here



(And don't forget your ration of Wicked Thoughts for today)