Syracuse Crime Lab Getting $314K Federal Grant

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — Federal grants totaling more than $300,000 are expected to help reduce a backlog in cases at central New York crime lab that was the focus of a dispute between local police and prosecutors.

The Post-Standard reports that the U.S. Department of Justice on Tuesday awarded the Onondaga County crime lab $314,000 to help clear up cases awaiting forensic analysis. The county's forensic sciences center in Syracuse handles cases for city and county law enforcement agencies.

Last fall, Syracuse police officials said the lab often ignored police requests to examine evidence. District Attorney William Fitzpatrick denied the claims.

The spat prompted an investigation by the state inspector general. A report released in April said investigators found no evidence to support police complaints that the lab didn't adequately communicate with law enforcement.