Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2022, $406,097)
The DuPage County Forensic Science Center (DCFSC) is a forensic science laboratory that analyzes evidence items from approximately 40 law enforcement agencies within DuPage County, Illinois. The DNA Section is an NDIS-participating laboratory and offers DNA analysis of casework samples utilizing STRs and Y-STRs.
Funds in the amount of $406,097 are requested. A portion of the grant funds will pay for overtime for DNA analysts, to be used specifically when it is necessary to prevent a backlog. The capacity of the laboratory will be increased by grant funding of supplies needed for additional casework and replacement of aging equipment. Existing unused space will be enhanced with chemical-resistant countertops, providing a space for a trainee to practice DNA modules. Grant funded continuing education will improve the current analysts' scientific expertise and also enable the laboratory to comply with QAS requirements. In addition, grant funds will provide service contracts for essential equipment.
Together, these funded items will allow the laboratory to work toward the goal of increasing capacity and reducing the forensic casework turn-around time so that the backlog can, in turn, be reduced or eliminated.