GPD says forensic lab HVAC failure prevents full DNA testing; $2 million capital request submitted

The Guam Police Department told the Legislature's finance committee on April 27, 2026, that its Forensic Science Bureau has achieved international accreditation for several disciplines but cannot yet begin full DNA analysis because the laboratory's environmental control and exhaust systems remain nonfunctional.

"The Forensic Science Bureau requires $2 million in capital funding to replace the defunct HVAC system and failing EXOS infrastructure at the forensic science division laboratory," Chief Steven Signo told the committee, saying temporary fixes are unsustainable and the system prevents issuance of an occupancy permit and full operational commissioning.

Signo said the department had applied for community project funds and had engaged congressional staff to explore federal funding options. On the separate DNA lab structure, Signo clarified the DNA laboratory is a separate facility and said the commissioning team must complete final testing: "We're probably about 2 months out" for final commissioning once outstanding construction and equipment adjustments (fume hood, snorkel) are resolved and the testing team arrives to validate system performance.

Why it matters: Without a functioning environmental control system and occupancy approval, the laboratory cannot begin routine DNA testing and reagent procurement; that constrains GPD's ability to process evidence in-house and could delay investigative leads.

Committee members asked whether the governor could transfer funds to address the HVAC need; Signo said the governor was aware of the issue but no transfer had yet been requested, and that GPD was pursuing outside funding sources in parallel. Legislators urged GPD and the administration to coordinate closely so capital funds can be programmed and procurement documents prepared to avoid multi-year lapses.

Provenance: GPD's testimony and Q&A (Chief Steven Signo) on April 27, 2026.