CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today signed a law (HB 690) that creates a Cold Case Unit within the New Hampshire State Police. The new law allows State Police to dedicate investigators, working in conjunction with the Attorney General’s Office, to examine crimes that have gone unsolved.

“This new law allows us to dedicate investigators to look into these crimes that have gone unsolved, giving these cases the time, resources and attention they need and deserve,” Gov. Lynch said. “These complex cases can frustrate law enforcement officers as the years pass and new caseloads take precedence over these older cases. Even more significant is the pain felt by family members and friends of victims, who want and need answers to help move forward.”

Funding for the new Cold Case Unit is being provided by the federal Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant program. Gov. Lynch and the Executive Council recently accepted more than $1 million in Byrne Grant funding, made possible through federal stimulus, for the formation of the Cold Case Unit.

“This new law is part of our continuing efforts to better protect the public,” Gov. Lynch said. “And for the families of the victims of unresolved crimes, with this new law, there is now a better chance that they may receive the closure they have sought.”

House Bill 690 was sponsored by Reps. Peyton Hinkle, Dick Hinch, Dennis Reed and Jordan Ulery; and Sen. Sheila Roberge.