June 6, 2025

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On June 6, 2025, the Arkansas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officially broke ground on a new, state-of-the-art Arkansas State Crime Laboratory (ASCL) in North Little Rock. This marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to modernize and expand its forensic science capabilities, better serving Arkansans.

“The opportunity to build a new Arkansas State Crime Laboratory is truly once in a lifetime – a moment that will shape the future of forensic science in our state for decades. We understand the critical role our laboratory has on the lives of Arkansans we serve, often during their most difficult and vulnerable moments,” said ASCL Director Dr. Theodore Brown. “This new facility represents more than just a building; it’s a commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science. Our team is dedicated to meeting the highest standards of science, quality, and service, and we are confident that the new laboratory will not only support our mission – it will elevate it. We are honored to serve the people of Arkansas and are inspired about the future we are building together.”

In April 2024, DPS announced the purchase of the nearly 19-acre property located between 5301 Northshore Drive and 5300 Northshore Cove for $4.095 million. Earlier in January 2024, the Arkansas Legislative Council approved ASCL’s request for funding to cover the land purchase.

Once completed, the new crime lab will be a 190,000-square-foot facility equipped with the latest forensic technology and infrastructure. This upgrade will enhance the lab’s ability to conduct scientific analyses and investigations, aiding in crime-solving efforts across the state.

“We understand that many people hope they never have to rely on the criminal justice system, but if the need arises, it’s vital that they can trust it to serve them effectively,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar. “Our goal is to ensure that our citizens feel supported and know that we are committed to making the necessary investments to provide the best possible service. We truly believe that this facility will help us achieve that mission.”

The ASCL analyzes evidence from crime scenes and conducts forensic examinations of deaths to support investigations. It offers a wide range of services, including forensic pathology, toxicology, drug analysis, DNA analysis, ballistics, digital evidence processing, and latent fingerprint identification.

Established in 1981, the current Arkansas State Crime Laboratory has provided forensic science services to law enforcement in Arkansas for more than forty years. It has reached capacity, prompting the need for a new, larger, and more advanced laboratory to continue delivering and expanding forensic science services.

Nabholz Construction is the general contractor and WER Architects designed the $200 million project, which is expected to be completed in 2027.