Acadiana New Crime Laboratory

The Acadiana Criminalistics Laboratory (ACL) has served southwest Louisiana by investigating and solving crimes for decades. Plans for a modern, state-of-the-art facility have been in place for the past few years, and the recent groundbreaking of a new facility marks the beginning of a new chapter in forensic analysis for the area.

ACL’s old facility faced several challenges as the demand for forensic services has grown. Originally designed for fewer forensic cases, the old facility provided limitations for investigators who struggled with the increased caseload and technological advancements in forensic science, leading to inefficiencies and logistical bottlenecks.

The new 41,000-sf facility is not only designed to address these operational limitations and backlogs, but also ensures the laboratory will meet both current and future forensic science demands. The new facility will allow for more efficient use of space, improved technology integration, contain upgraded security features to ensure the integrity of evidence and accommodate faster turnaround times. This upgrade is essential to continue supporting law enforcement in the efficient forensic investigation services and maintaining public safety in southwest Louisiana.

Once construction is complete, the modern forensic facility will house forensic biology/DNA, chemistry; controlled substances; toxicology; trace; crime scene; firearms & toolmarks; gun range & water tank; vehicle exam bay; evidence intake & storage; administrative office spaces; and support staff office spaces.