Investigation Into the Austin Police Crime Lab Suggested by State Panel
Recent complaints regarding the Austin Police Crime Lab have lead officials to a possible investigation. The complaints alleged were regarding how the drug evidence is tested. The complaints stated that there was negligence or possible misconduct. One of the complaints came from a worker who was fired. She stated there were difference results when running the same evidence at another lab.
Though an investigation was suggested, it is still unclear as to whether an actual investigation will happen. A meeting on Friday, March 2, 2012, regarding these issues still left matters unattended. The former employee, Debra Stephens, stated that she had told her former employer several times about the issues with the inaccurate testing, but they continuously fell on deaf ears. Reports of evidence being reported without being processed are also part of the complaints. Stephens also states this was the reason for her being let go from her position, as she raised concerns with the officials in charge.
The manager of the Austin lab, Bill Gibbens, is not worried about any outside investigations. In fact, he welcomes the investigation to clear his lab of any wrongdoing. While significant issues are being reported, there is still no official word on how the state is planning to deal with this matter. Currently the status is inquiry and no formal investigation has been launched.