PRINCETON, N.J., Sept. 8, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orchid Cellmark Inc. (Nasdaq:ORCH), a leading international provider of identity DNA testing services, today announced that the company has commenced work under a recently awarded contract with Thames Valley Police (TVP), the largest non-metropolitan police force in the United Kingdom, with whom Orchid Cellmark has previously worked as a sub-contractor. Orchid's role as a sub-contractor to TVP ended in April 2008.

Under this contract Orchid Cellmark will conduct all of TVP's requirements for DNA testing of PACE samples (mouth swabs taken under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act) and DNA analysis of volume crime scene samples for submission to the National DNA Database from the company's Abingdon facility.

Thomas Bologna, Orchid Cellmark's president and chief executive officer said, "I am delighted we've 'won back' this work now as a direct supplier. It is an important win and represents a significant amount of work for our company." Mr. Bologna added, "This award is further evidence of our commitment to excellent customer service and the successful transition we have made to become a leading direct supplier of DNA testing services to U.K. police forces throughout the country."

Over the last two decades Orchid Cellmark has established its position as one of the leading providers of forensic services in the United Kingdom. Based in Abingdon, Oxfordshire and Chorley, Lancashire, the company provides a full range of forensic DNA services ranging from the testing of mouth swab samples for submission to the U.K. National DNA Database, to the collection and analysis of evidence for the investigation of the most serious crimes. The company also conducts its market leading paternity and immigration testing services from its Abingdon facility.

About Orchid Cellmark

Orchid Cellmark (Nasdaq:ORCH) is a leading international provider of DNA testing services primarily for forensic and family relationship applications. Orchid Cellmark is one of the largest providers of forensic DNA testing services and its DNA results are used by the criminal justice system to assist with the identification of perpetrators, the exclusion of suspects and the exoneration of wrongfully convicted individuals. The company provides DNA family relationship testing to numerous child services organizations and individuals seeking to verify parentage. Orchid Cellmark also serves immigration and security authorities for DNA testing of individuals. In the agriculture field, the company provides DNA testing services for selective trait breeding. Orchid Cellmark's strong market positions in these areas reflect the company's accredited laboratories in the U.S.