Michigan State Police to start special lab unit to process sex crimes faster

NORTHVILLE, Mich (WXYZ) - Michigan State Police has announced the creation of a new Laboratory Unit that will focus on processing criminal sexual assault kits faster for Detroit area victims.

"It is our goal and one given by the Governor to have evidence processed in 30 days" says Michigan State Police Director of Forensic Science John Collins.

Collins says over the next few weeks he will help assemble the team that will include DNA experts.

The unit is expected to start facilitating unprecedented communication between laboratory staff and the specially trained sexual assault nurses who collect evidence from victims.

The new unit is expected to be operational early this summer.