About Us

Mission

The mission of the Bexar County Criminal Investigation Laboratory is to provide the citizens of Bexar County and our customers with comprehensive, impartial, reliable scientific analysis of evidence by experts skilled in the latest technology in Forensic Science as cost-effectively and timely as possible without jeopardizing the quality of work, the integrity of the laboratory, or the principles of justice.

Vision

To be recognized as a leader among Forensic Laboratories in providing expert scientific analysis of forensic evidence to support public safety and further the goals of justice.

GOALS & OBJECTIVES

  • Increase the number of cases and exams completed each year.
  • Present impartial scientific findings and opinions to the customer and courts.
  • Provide analytical reports in a timely manner.
  • Provide cost-effective scientific services.
  • Provide quality services.

HISTORY

The Bexar County Criminal Investigations Laboratory (Crime Laboratory) was established in 1985 in cooperation with the City of San Antonio Police Department. We were the first crime laboratory in the State of Texas to use forensic DNA analysis in 1989. In 1998, we became the first local crime laboratory in the State of Texas to be nationally accredited.

EMPLOYEES

All Bexar County Crime Laboratory employees are highly trained civilian forensic professionals. Forensic Scientists have a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited college or university.

CONTROLLING AUTHORITY

The Crime Laboratory is currently part of the Office of Criminal Justice of Bexar County. Through an Executive Director, the Crime Laboratory Director is directly responsible to Bexar County Commissioners Court. This unique arrangement places the Bexar County Crime Laboratory outside the direct influence of its customer base, law enforcement agencies.

BUDGET

The Crime Laboratory's complete Budget can be viewed in its entirety at the Budget Department website. Though the Crime Laboratory generates fees via a cost-sharing mechanism with Non-Bexar agencies, all revenue that is generated by the Crime Laboratory goes to the General Fund of Bexar County. The Crime Laboratory receives its funding through the formal budget review and approval process as do all other county departments.