The equipment, known as the ANDE Rapid DNA system, can generate DNA identification from forensic samples in less than two hours, Kentucky law enforcement officials said. Kentucky is at the forefront nationally in embracing the technology, they said.
A 2017 federal law authorized the FBI director to issue standards and procedures for rapid DNA analysis, described as a fully automated process, according to an FBI website. The technology could help law enforcement apprehend sexual predators before they commit more crimes, Kentucky officials said. It also can prove the innocence of those falsely accused, they said.
Fully implementing the system statewide and applying it to as many as 2,000 cases yearly would cost the state about $3 million, she said. Officials also are seeking grants. Democratic state Sen. Denise Harper Angel, who has championed the issue, said in a statement that use of the technology shows Kentucky's commitment to "provide swift justice" for victims of sexual assault.