DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction(CEBR)Program (Formula), FY2021

The Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratories (KSPFL) has continued to provide DNA analysis to the Commonwealth of Kentucky since 1989. During these 30 years many technological advances have occurred in DNA analysis. Along with these technological advances, procedural changes have been implemented within the KSPFL to accommodate the ever advancing science of DNA analysis. First, current evaluations have identified a continued need to purchase reagents utilized in DNA analysis in the casework section. These reagents include amplification and quantification kits. Included with the first evaluation is a lack of additional analytical time (over time) dedicated to processing cases in the casework section. Submissions that request DNA analysis are increasing and are being requested in a wider variety of case types. This trend leads to larger backlogs and longer turnaround times (TAT). Second, evaluations have identified that the casework section is in need of efficiency improvements. To begin this process a Lean Six Sigma project will be initiated to identify bottlenecks and improve efficiency. In conjunction with this project several pieces of equipment and supplies will be purchased, including whiteboards/dry erase boards, monitors, BSD punch and Hamilton Starlet instrument. Third, evaluations have identified a continued need to purchase reagents utilized in DNA analysis in the database section. These reagents include amplification kits, arrays, size standard, tips, and pop. An additional need exists for the database section to purchase Offender collection kits and a new CODIS server. Finally, is the need for analysts to attend workshops and training to stay abreast of new advances and techniques in the forensic biology field as the topics relate to both casework and database processing. By providing high throughput procedures, equipment, overtime (OT) hours, reagents, and training opportunities the Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratory Casework and Database section anticipates that the TAT will decrease along with the number of backlogged cases.