GBI shuts 2 crime labs, more may come

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GBI shuts 2 crime labs, more may come

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Story Published: Aug 18, 2008 at 6:16 AM EST

Story Updated: Aug 25, 2008 at 11:03 AM EST

ATLANTA (AP) - Georgia Bureau of Investigation crime labs are
feeling the pinch because of state budget cuts mandated by Gov.
Sonny Perdue.
The GBI has to cut its budget by 6 percent along with other
state agencies under Perdue's directive, due to sharp revenue
shortages in a slowing national economy.
Among other cuts, medical examiner offices in Summerville and
Moultrie have been eliminated in a slice of about $4.2 million in
the GBI budget this fiscal year. Another $4.1 million reduction is
projected for 2010, which starts July 1, 2009.
If that occurs, the forensics labs in Columbus and Moultrie
might be axed.
GBI director Vernon Keenan says cuts in regional offices are
bound to increase an existing backlog at the state crime lab near
Atlanta.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Tuesday, Aug 19 at 8:51 AM Concerned Citizen wrote ...

Unfortunately Terry, the public does need to know since we have a responsibility to hold our government responsible since we live in a democracy. If you'd like to keep your head deeply entrenched in the sand, you'll soon find those criminals tickling you.

Monday, Aug 18 at 4:43 PM Terry wrote ...

I don't think that's something the layman needs to know. Tell it to the professionals and other law-abiders that NEED to know. Don't tell the public, which unfortunately includes some criminals, that investigations are more difficult now because there are labs closing. Please.

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