‘Betrayal of victims': Report demands forensic reform

News.com.au

2 days ago

An independent forensic review has uncovered widespread failures in Queensland's DNA testing system, prompting the state government to announce a sweeping overhaul of Forensic Science Queensland (FSQ).
The report, authored by forensic biologist Kirsty Wright, details extensive issues including unreliable results, long delays in testing, and contamination, problems that have significantly impacted police investigations, court proceedings, and victims of crime.
The findings come after the state government commissioned the review in its first week in office, appointing Dr Wright and former FBI expert Bruce Budowle to assess testing services and reforms.
According to the report:
• FSQ has been providing unreliable DNA results to police and courts since early 2023 due to systemic contamination.
• Delays in reporting DNA evidence have worsened, placing the justice system under 'critical system failure'.
• The median turnaround time for DNA results in major crimes is 412 days, almost 400 days longer than what police require.
• The backlog of untested rape kits increased from 75 in 2023 to 511 by September 2024, with some tests taking more than a year despite guidelines recommending completion within two to eight weeks.
The government has responded by announcing the formation of an independent expert team, to be led by former NSW Police commissioner Mick Fuller, with continued involvement from both Dr Wright and Dr Budowle.
Premier David Crisafulli said the report 'exposes a harrowing chapter in Queensland's justice system'.
'We launched this review because Queenslanders deserve the truth and victims of crime deserve justice,' Mr Crisafulli said.
'This report shows what has occurred is nothing short of a betrayal of victims, but we are determined to rebuild confidence and restore integrity in the justice system.'
Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the report's findings 'rocked the foundations of our justice system'.
'Dr Wright's findings aren't just concerning, they're chilling, and I know this report will be very difficult reading for victims,' Ms Frecklington said.
'To restore safety where you live, we must resource our courts and police with evidence they need
Ms Frecklington said she was confident trust in the DNA testing system could be rebuilt.
In addition to launching the expert panel, the government has pledged $50m over two years to clear the DNA backlog by outsourcing samples for testing.
A further $6m will go to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to help deliver faster outcomes in DNA-related matters.
Dr Wright said she was committed to helping rebuild Queensland's forensic system.
'I have been determined to leave no stone unturned with my review, knowing that the failures that occurred under the former government have seen our criminal justice system compromised, trust in our forensic DNA services eroded, and too many victims denied justice,' Dr Wright said.
Mr Fuller said he was prepared for the work ahead.
'I am under no illusions that there is significant road in front of us as we work through the very serious issues raised,' Mr Fuller said.
'It is a great privilege to be entrusted with such a transformative task.'