The MSP developed the video testimony initiative to reduce the time and costs associated with traveling to court; allowing forensic scientists more time to conduct analysis.

As the largest provider of forensic analysis in the state, MSP forensic scientists are asked to appear in court over 1,000 times each year. In addition, forensic scientists often receive multiple subpoenas requiring appearances at different courts on the same day.

“With the implementation of forensic expert video testimony, our forensic scientists can provide testimony to any court in the state without leaving the laboratory,” stated Colonel Peter C. Munoz, Director of the MSP. “The initiative is expected to eliminate hundreds of trips to court, which will increase productivity and save travel expenses.”

The initiative is supported with grants from the National Institute of Justice and the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.

The MSP has seven, American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Laboratory Accreditation Board (ASCLD-LAB) accredited forensic laboratories that provide a full range of forensic science services to every law enforcement agency in the state. The laboratories are located in Bridgeport, Grand Rapids, Grayling, Lansing, Marquette, Northville and Sterling Heights, Mich.

The CSG is a nonprofit association dedicated to pursuing excellence in state government. Each year the CSG recognizes eight state programs, two from each of the four regions, for excellence in innovation.