In-depth look into the Texas DPS Weslaco crime lab

WESLACO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Public Safety provided an inside look at their Weslaco forensic lab, where experts from multiple fields come together to help uncover the truth. From DNA analysis to firearm testing, this facility helps law enforcement agencies get the answers they need.

Guadalupe Casarez, a Public Information Officer for DPS, says forensic scientists play a crucial role in balancing the scales of justice.

"We always showcase our troopers, boots on the ground, gathering evidence, solving crimes, arresting people. But all that evidence gets stored in a certain area, and that’s where these important people play a role in solving crimes and bringing justice to the victims," said Casarez.

Experts work together at the lab to analyze evidence, utilizing a team of 40 forensic scientists who aim for a quick turnaround while serving six counties in South Texas.

Jose Zuniga, Lab Manager of the Texas DPS Crime Laboratory in Weslaco, says that while they receive plenty of cases each month, backlog is not a major concern.

"Through increasing resources of personnel, increasing funding, being more efficient in our testing process, and increasing the number of instruments that we have on hand, we’ve definitely improved and brought down the backlog," said Zuniga. "But I don’t think you’re ever going to completely get rid of it, just because of the nature of the situation."

While there are no new advancements currently on the way, Zuniga says the lab is fully equipped with working tools that meet all current standards, allowing scientists to process all evidence that comes their way.