By the numbers: RI forensics lab

(WPRI) - The Forensics Sciences section at the State Health Laboratories handles thousands of pieces of evidence every year for criminal investigations. With an increasing workload and shrinking budget, the labs are facing mounting pressure to keep up. Take a look at the numbers and accompanying graphs for yourself: The target 12 Investigators compiled these stats as part of their report.

Backlog:
94 cases total:
-48 cases backlogged from 2009
-29 cases backlogged from 2010
-17 of which are sexual assault cases

Staffing:
2006: 83 personnel
2007: 80 personnel
2008: 68 personnel
2009: 68 personnel
2010: 68 personnel*
(*Dr. Ewa King, Director of State Health Laboratories is in the process of filling two vacancies)

CODIS (Combined DNA Index System):
2006: 2,300 samples taken
2007: 2,200 samples taken
2008: 3,300 samples taken
2009: 3,100 samples taken

Since 2004 there have been 187 matches linked to unsolved crimes