“Rapid DNA ensures swift justice, removes dangerous criminals from our streets, and saves lives."
Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – Last week Senator Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe) filed SB 1723 to establish a pilot program for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to implement Rapid DNA technology, accelerating investigations and removing violent offenders from Texas communities.
“DNA has proven to be an invaluable tool for law enforcement,” said Creighton. “Since the passage of HB 1399, cold cases have been solved, dangerous criminals taken off the streets, and long-overdue justice delivered to victims and their families. This legislation builds on that success and strengthens DPS’s ability to keep Texans safe.”
In 2019, Creighton passed HB 1399, allowing law enforcement to collect DNA samples from individuals arrested for violent felonies such as murder, rape, and assault. These DNA markers are securely stored in a database, linking prior unsolved crimes to current offenders. In 2023, the program was expanded through HB 3956, requiring DNA collection for all felony arrests.
The results speak for themselves. In Fiscal Year 2024 alone, the DPS Crime Lab solved approximately 1,005 cases through DNA collection at booking.
“This proactive approach is crucial because most violent offenders are repeat offenders,” said Creighton. “By identifying and apprehending them more quickly, law enforcement is preventing future crimes and protecting Texas communities.”
Building on this success, SB 1723 establishes a Rapid DNA pilot program under DPS. While traditional testing can take up to 72 hours, Rapid DNA delivers results in just 90 to 120 minutes, accelerating investigations and reducing backlogs. The pilot program, launching in two counties by September 1, 2026, will enhance DPS efficiency and ensure faster justice for victims.
“Texas law enforcement goes above and beyond to keep our communities safe,” Creighton said. “Rapid DNA ensures swift justice, removes dangerous criminals from our streets, and saves lives. This bill is a priority for law enforcement, and I look forward to it becoming law for the safety of all Texans.”
