Attorneys: Huge backlog at GBI crime lab hinders justice

MACON, Ga. (AP) - Authorities say that so many drugs are being sent to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's crime lab for analysis that its staff can't keep up with the workload.

The Telegraph reports that for the past year, the lab has faced a growing backlog. That's slowed down the testing process, and its effects are widespread.

The newspaper reports that if prosecutors don't have the evidence they need to pursue a drug-related case in a timely manner, both drug dealers and drug abusers can get out on bond and return to the streets.

Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney David Cooke says that his office often has to wait seven to eight months to get back test results from the crime lab.

In some cases, it has taken over a year.