FY20/21 DNA Backlog Reduction Program - San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department - Scientific Investigations Division (SBCSD-SID) Crime Laboratory is part of a unit of local government.  We are responsible for analyzing evidential material associated with criminal investigations for local law enforcement agencies within the counties of San Bernardino and Riverside.  The overall goals of the SBCSD-SID Crime Laboratory are to increase the throughput of our DNA laboratory, reduce DNA casework backlog and reduce DNA case turnaround time.  Our objectives will be to fund a DNA Criminalist position (created and originally funded utilizing the FY 2019 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program) to assist with the analysis of sexual assault kits, fund overtime and supplies to complete backlogged DNA cases, fund necessary training of analysts, fund equipment to assist with sample extractions and cleanup, fund an external DNA audit and fund the replacement of aging equipment and computers within the lab.  The projected plans will incorporate the most prudent and efficient use of overtime, supplies, training and other funded categories which will allow us to reach our goals.  The Federal funding from this award will assist in giving analysts more time and supplies to work backlogged forensic casework.  SBCSD-SID will analyze at least 110 forensic biology backlogged DNA cases with the assistance of these funds.  This award will be specifically used for the following goals:

1.  Reduce the backlog of forensic biology/DNA cases.
2.  Increase and maintain the capacity and capabilities of the DNA unit in the laboratory.
3.  Maintain continuing education for the Criminalists in the DNA unit.