DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program

Proposal Abstract

The Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory (JCRCL) is the agency responsible for analyzing evidence from criminal investigations in Jefferson County, Lakewood, Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Golden, and other municipalities within Jefferson County Colorado.  The Forensic Biology section of the JCRCL is responsible for conducting serological examinations and DNA analysis on evidence collected from crime scenes from jurisdictions within Jefferson County.

The JCRCL has faced budget shortfalls while continually facing an increase in DNA case submissions.  Monies awarded in prior years have allowed the JCRCL to drastically reduce the number of backlogged cases and substantially decrease the turnaround time for the completion of DNA cases.  The federal funding from this award will allow the JCRCL Forensic Biology section a way to continue to reduce the number of backlogged cases and to reduce the turnaround time for completion of DNA cases.  Additionally, this award will allow the JCRCL to add new laboratory equipment and upgrade DNA analysis software.  Once validated, the new equipment and upgraded software will allow for more efficient DNA processing and DNA analysis/interpretation.  This award will specifically be used toward reaching the following goals:

Reduce the number of backlogged forensic biology cases.
Reduce the turnaround time for completion of forensic biology cases.
Add new laboratory equipment and validate/implement into casework.
Upgrade DNA analysis software and validate/implement into casework.
Provide all DNA analysts with required continuing education.

The Forensic Biology section of the JCRCL hopes to keep the turnaround time for completion of cases to 45 days or less, reduce the number of backlogged cases (100 cases > 30 days old), add new laboratory equipment, upgrade DNA analysis software, and validate/implement the new laboratory equipment and upgraded DNA analysis software with funds from this award.