Digital forensic backlog

Freedom of Information (FOI) Act request ref: 01/FOI/25/8797

Version Date: 01/10/2025

The Southwest Forensics Department have provided the following information.

I am writing to request updated information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 regarding the backlog of cases in the Digital Forensics Unit (Devon & Cornwall Police / Southwest Forensics collaboration).

Specifically, I would like to know, as of the most recent available date (e.g. August/September 2025):

1. The number of cases currently awaiting examination by the Digital Forensics Unit.

As at the 5 September 2025 there are currently 415 Outstanding Digital Forensic Unit (DFU) Cases for Devon & Cornwall. 

2. A breakdown by timeframe (under 1 month, 2-3 months, 4-6 months, 7-12 months, and over 12 months).

3.Confirmation of whether the prioritisation targets remain:
* Immediate priority: start within 1 day
* High priority: start within 1 month
* Medium priority: start within 2 months
* Low priority: start within 3 months.

Yes - There has been no change to the DFU Prioritisation system