In April, the Arkansas Department of Public Safety broke ground on the new state-of-the-art Arkansas Crime Laboratory in North Little Rock, marking a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to modernize and expand its forensic science capabilities.
“The opportunity to build a new Arkansas State Crime Laboratory is truly once in a lifetime — a moment that will shape the future of forensic science in our state for decades. We understand the critical role our laboratory has on the lives of Arkansans we serve, often during their most difficult and vulnerable moments,” said Dr. Theodore Brown, ASCL director. “This new facility represents more than just a building; it’s a commitment to delivering timely, accurate and reliable forensic science. Our team is dedicated to meeting the highest standards of science, quality and service, and we are confident that the new laboratory will not only support our mission — it will elevate it. We are honored to serve the people of Arkansas and are inspired about the future we are building together.”
DPS purchased the nearly 19-acre property between 5301 Northshore Drive and 5300 Northshore Cove in 2024 for nearly $4.1 million. Once completed, the 190,000-square-foot facility will be equipped with the latest forensic technology and infrastructure, enhancing the lab’s ability to conduct scientific analyses and investigations and aiding in crime-solving efforts across the state.
“We understand that many people hope they never have to rely on the criminal justice system, but if the need arises, it’s vital that they can trust it to serve them effectively,” said Col. Mike Hagar, Arkansas secretary of public safety. “Our goal is to ensure that our citizens feel supported and know that we are committed to making the necessary investments to provide the best possible service. We truly believe that this facility will help us achieve that mission.”
Nabholz Construction is the general contractor, and WER Architects designed the $200 million project, which is expected to be completed in 2027. Other contractors include James A. Rogers Excavating, Cromwell Architects Engineers and Bass Commercial Concrete.
On April 10, DPS celebrated the placement of the final structural beam during a topping-out ceremony at the project site.
“We have incredible team members — true champions with integrity — who show up every day committed to truth, service and excellence,” Brown said. “Our new building will help us live out our values more fully, giving our team the space and tools to turn values into action. Because of this, we get to strengthen public safety and public health, we get to support justice, and we get to serve every corner of Arkansas.”
The ASCL analyzes evidence from crime scenes and conducts forensic examinations of deaths to support investigations. It offers a wide range of services, including forensic pathology, toxicology, drug analysis, DNA analysis, ballistics, digital evidence processing and latent fingerprint identification.
Established in 1981, the current Arkansas State Crime Laboratory has provided forensic science services to law enforcement in Arkansas for more than 40 years. The facility has reached capacity, prompting the need for a new, larger and more advanced laboratory to continue delivering and expanding forensic science services.
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