Amid state backlog, new Licking County crime lab aims to expedite drug-evidence testing

The drug epidemic sweeping Ohio has strained state resources, causing backlogs for test results from state labs.That means a slower, longer road to justice for victims and suspects returning to the streets.Licking County is about to unveil a new resource aimed at reducing that backlog.Licking County Sheriff Randy Thorp got his first tour Wednesday of the county's newest crime-fighting resource. He and prosecutor Bill Hayes say the sheer number of drug crimes they've seen is overwhelming."Last ye