MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Anoka County Forensic Laboratory Earns International Recognition for Seventh Consecutive Year

ANOKA COUNTY, MN (August 1, 2026). A forensic laboratory housed inside the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office has received international recognition for operational excellence for the seventh consecutive year.

The Midwest Regional Forensic Laboratory received the Project FORESIGHT Maximus Award, which recognizes 15 top-performing forensic laboratories worldwide.

Regional Laboratory Serves Three Counties

The laboratory provides forensic services to law-enforcement agencies in Anoka, Sherburne and Wright counties.

Forensic laboratories assist criminal investigations by examining physical evidence, producing scientific findings and helping investigators and prosecutors determine how evidence may relate to an alleged crime.

The work can involve firearms evidence, controlled substances, fingerprints, digital material and other forms of evidence, depending on the laboratory’s capabilities and the needs of participating agencies.

Performance Recognition Sustained Over Seven Years

Receiving the award for a seventh consecutive year suggests sustained performance rather than a single exceptional period.

Project FORESIGHT examines forensic laboratory operations and performance data, allowing participating laboratories to compare productivity, staffing, costs and efficiency.

Anoka County commissioners formally commended laboratory employees during the County Board’s July 28 meeting.

The recognition also underscores the regional role of the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. Evidence examined at the facility may come from agencies beyond Anoka County through the laboratory’s service arrangements with Sherburne and Wright counties.

County officials did not announce any monetary award connected with the recognition.

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