NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Arkansas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will host a Topping Out Ceremony on Friday, April 10, 2026, marking a major construction milestone for the new Arkansas State Crime Laboratory (ASCL) facility in North Little Rock.
The state‑of‑the‑art laboratory will significantly expand Arkansas’s forensic science capabilities, providing modernized technology, increased capacity, and improved service to law enforcement agencies and communities across the state. The new facility represents a major investment in public safety and the scientific resources needed to support criminal investigations.
"This Topping Out milestone reflects our steadfast commitment to a future-ready facility that will help us advance our mission and vision, uphold our core values, and continue delivering exceptional forensic science in service to Arkansans for decades to come,” said Crime Laboratory Director Dr. Theodore Brown.
The new laboratory will replace the current facility, which has operated at capacity for years as demand for forensic services has grown. The expanded space and upgraded infrastructure will support advanced disciplines such as DNA analysis, toxicology, digital forensics, firearms examination, and more.
EVENT DETAILS
- What: Topping Out Ceremony for the New Arkansas State Crime Laboratory
- When: Friday, April 10, 2026, at 3 p.m.
- Where: 5405 Northshore Drive, North Little Rock
- Who: Arkansas Department of Public Safety, Arkansas State Crime Laboratory, and invited guests
Members of the media are invited to attend and are requested to arrive no later than 2:45 p.m. Photo and interview opportunities will be available.