2021 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program (formula

This application is focused on funding 14 agencies that will work to ensure quality and efficient processing of forensic services to criminal justice professionals. As more opioids, heroin and fentanyl abuse and usage continues, these illegal drugs will be confiscated by the law enforcement agencies in Ohio, which leads to more testing and identification of controlled substances. Key goals for this proposal are: Keep qualified personnel to assist in the reduction/elimination of backlog in the areas of analysis of forensic science evidence; obtain critical and up-to-date information available on forensic analysis through professional conferences, instrument manufacturers, training and networking; procure technology and supplies that will maintain or enhance laboratory accreditation, quality assurance and analytical ability to maintain the standards of ASCLD/LAB accreditation. Continued training in forensic science courses will enhance each analyst with knowledge and enable the analyst to employ the most current techniques, information, and protocols when conducting forensic examinations and analyses. As a result, the timeliness and quality of forensic analyses and examination conducted by the scientific staff will be significantly improved.