Editorial: Finally, good news about lab
MINEOLA, NY. THURSDAY DECEMBER 15, 2011. Former NY State Senator, Michael Balboni, (right) joins Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano to announce the creation of a forensic advisory board which Balboni will lead as Chairman to guide the new Nassau crime lab. Credit: Photo by
For the first time in a long while, there's positive news in the saga of the Nassau County crime lab. County Executive Edward Mangano announced this week the creation of an advisory board to oversee the lab. And it's graced with the right powers and people to see that the current disaster -- driven by low standards, poor communication and faulty test procedures -- isn't repeated.
The lab was placed on probation for the second time last year because workers hadn't been properly trained, didn't label or secure evidence correctly, and failed to clean and calibrate equipment. It closed in February.
Dozens of cases have been brought into question by the lab's failures. Nassau judges have tossed convictions in two cases, and the county is spending $100,000 a month to have old evidence rechecked.
An improved facility in New Cassel should help, as could transforming the workforce from cops who cannot be evaluated to trained lab workers who can. But this new board must make sure things actually get better.
It will be led by Michael Balboni, a former state senator, assemblyman and deputy secretary to the governor known for his candor, brains and independence. Also serving will be a former FBI senior executive well-versed in forensic science and three other members with relevant expertise. The appointment of such qualified overseers suggests Mangano really wants the new lab to run right, and that it will -- restoring both confidence in and competence at this important facility.
