MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Forensic testing for ballistics and rapid DNA could be expanded in Shelby County. County leaders said all they need is a recurring $5.5 million to make it happen.

The West Tennessee Regional Forensic Testing Center is the only forensic testing center in Shelby County. The next closest is the TBI lab in Jackson, Tennessee. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris and Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy told county commissioners to consider more than $5 million in the upcoming budget to expand testing.

"I think the most important thing in order to continue the downward trend in crime is to increase our solve rate," Mulroy said.

The DA's office said being able to solve crimes quicker can mean quicker arrests.

"With rapid DNA, this is an emerging technology; it's about a de

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