NSP Crime Lab Director Retires, New Director Named

JUNE 28, 2024 (LINCOLN, NEB.)  — The Nebraska State Patrol is proud to congratulate Pam Zilly on her retirement after 37 years of service to the people of Nebraska. Zilly has spent the last 16 years as Director of the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory.

“Pam has been an incredible public servant for nearly four decades,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Her leadership and expertise have been vital to the success of the NSP Crime Lab, which has absolutely made an impact on public safety throughout our state.”

Zilly began her career with NSP in 1987, rising through the ranks at the Crime Lab until her promotion to director in 2008. Since that time, the Crime Lab team designed and built a new facility, modernized numerous scientific testing procedures to assist in criminal investigations, and eliminated a backlog of thousands of previously unsubmitted sexual assault test kits.

With Zilly’s retirement, NSP is proud to announce the promotion of Jason Linder as the next NSP Crime Laboratory Director. Linder has been serving with NSP since 2002, beginning his career as a Forensic Scientist in North Platte. He has served as the NSP Crime Lab Forensic Division Manager since 2012.

“Jason’s experience and knowledge make him an excellent choice to lead our team of scientists at the Crime Lab,” said Colonel Bolduc. “As technology continues to advance, Jason and our entire team will continue to work to be leaders in the scientific fields of forensic and chemical analysis to help solve crimes and keep Nebraskans safe.”