Harris County explores drug case testing proposal for 70000 stored misdemeanors

Houston's Forensic Science Center (HFSC) is taking significant steps to address a backlog of approximately 70,000 drug cases stored by the Houston Police Department (HPD). During the Board of Directors meeting on May 9, 2025, members discussed a proposal aimed at evaluating these cases, many of which stem from misdemeanor offenses that were resolved through plea agreements based on field tests. Concerns have arisen regarding the reliability of these tests, which have been shown to have a false positive rate of 3 to 5 percent. This means that as many as 3,000 individuals may have accepted plea deals for substances that were not controlled drugs.

The proposal seeks to allocate resources for testing a subset of these cases, either through HFSC or by outsourcing. The goal is to identify cases that pose no risk and those that require further investigation, allowing for a more strategic use of available testing funds. The current storage of these materials poses health and safety risks, as drugs can attract pests and degrade over time, making it imperative to find a solution.

While the proposal has been accepted, there is no guarantee of funding. However, the board recognized the importance of addressing this issue and exploring intelligent methods to manage the backlog. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges related to drug testing and the implications for individuals who may have been wrongfully charged based on unreliable field tests.

In addition to the drug case proposal, the board also touched on legislative updates affecting forensic science in Texas, indicating a proactive approach to improving the integrity and efficiency of forensic practices in the state. The HFSC's efforts reflect a commitment to justice and public safety, as they work to resolve these longstanding issues within the community.