DNA database program announced in Bucks County

DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- All 40 police departments in Bucks County can now work together to fight crime by using the latest forensic technology.

On Tuesday they announced a countywide DNA database program.

"It's not a gun, it's not a Taser, it's not even a weapon. It's a Q-Tip," Bucks County Chief Prosecutor Andrew Weintraub said.

This will allow police from multiple jurisdictions to work on cases collectively and submit forensic evidence to one lab.

Officials say this is especially helpful because criminals often move from one town to the next.

It will also make the investigations move along much faster.

"Instead of waiting 9-18 months to get DNA results back, Bucks County gets DNA results back in less than 30 days in less than 24 hours if we need so in a particular case," said Fred Harran from Bensalem Township Police Department.

The cost of the system is more than $600,000 per year. Bucks County will split the tab with all municipalities with Bensalem paying more since they are larger.

The county-wide database is the first of its kind in the country.