LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — According to the Arkansas State Crime Lab, the number of deceased Arkansans has surged by 25% in the last two years. Officials say the state’s forensic capabilities are falling behind largely due to a crime lab facility that hasn’t changed in more than four decades.

The Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, located in an 80,000-square-foot building that has been in use for 40 years, is facing growing challenges in space and staffing. Despite its critical role in public health and safety, officials believe the facility is no longer adequate to meet current demands.

“The critical work that we do for Arkansans should be no different than any other health care facility in Arkansas, because the work that we do is so impactful,” said Dr. Theodore Brown, director of the crime lab

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