Justice delayed is justice denied, that's why state, federal and local agencies say they fought for Springfield’s crime lab, which should help relieve some of the pressure on the state’s other crime labs.

The Jefferson City crime lab takes in evidence from 500 Missouri agencies, and Southwest Missouri submits a huge portion.

Over 3000 pieces of evidence are just sitting on shelves at the Jefferson City crime lab.

DNA and toxicology departments are taking the hardest hits.

In fact, toxicologists drive to Springfield 2 to 3 times a week.

Jefferson City’s crime lab director Bill Marbaker says seeing sexual assault kits on shelves reminds him victims are waiting on justice.

Marbaker says Springfield’s lab will speed up justice for more than Southwest Missouri.

Springfield’s Crime Lab is set to open next October.

About six trained and experienced Jefferson City criminalists will move to Springfield when the lab opens.