When officials in Licking County, OH wanted to open a forensic laboratory in 2018, forensic scientist Mark Hiatt stepped up to take on the challenge. Along with help from several local public safety agencies and other colleagues, Hiatt started the Central Ohio Regional Crime Laboratory. The lab is located in Newark, Ohio and provides forensic testing services for Licking County and agencies involved in the Central Ohio Drug Enforcement Task Force.
Hiatt began the laboratory accreditation process shortly after starting operations. It was a goal of Hiatt’s to become accredited from the start.
“I wanted to achieve accreditation for the laboratory to bolster our credibility in the legal system,” said Hiatt. “There’s no mandate in the state of Ohio, but it gives the prosecution and attorneys confidence in the results we produce.”
To read the full case study, click here.