State adds scientists to test backlogged rape kits

The state is stepping up its effort to analyze DNA collected in years-old sexual assault cases by adding to its roster of scientists and lab technicians assigned specifically to the task.

When the state’s new budget year starts Saturday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s crime lab will have four new scientists and two new techs. Another four scientists and two lab technicians will be added on Jan. 1 .

At the beginning of this year, the lab had 9,000 untested sexual assault kits but that number was reduced as some evidence was sent to a private lab for analysis and scientists and technicians were hired using grant money.