FY2022 Coverdell Application - Formula Grant - Massachusetts State Police

The Massachusetts State Police Crime Laboratory is requesting funds to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science services through the purchase of critical equipment and overtime. The following initiatives are to assist with the opioid abuse crisis the laboratory has encountered: funds to support overtime for the Drug and Toxicology Units to assist in increasing the case output and decreasing the backlog, funding to purchase a new GC-MS instrument and a Diamond ATR accessory for the FTIR instrument for more efficient case processing. In addition, the we would like to purchase Aztec upgrades to SEM units for the Trace, Arson and Explosive Unit which are needed to improve the quality and timeliness of gunshot primer residue testing thereby reducing the number of backlogged cases in line for analysis. Additionally, the MSPCL seeks to fund travel and training for analysts within the Toxicology and Firearms Identification Section (FIS) to allow them the opportunity for continued education and gain knowledge of current and future methods and technologies. The Trace, Arson and Explosive unit would like fund the purchase a new GC-MS instrument for analysis of fire debris and explosives cases. The items, overtime, and training for the Drug Unit, Toxicology Unit, FIS and CSSS are directly related to the opioid crisis. Studies have shown a correlation between the rise in drug related crime and the use of firearms. The Boston Police Department Forensic Group would like to utilize funds from this program to fund travel and training. By attending trainings, the members of the BPD Forensic Group can stay abreast of the current methods and technologies available in their field of study as well as network with other professionals. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is requesting funding to purchase FTA cards and barrier pouches for the retention of DNA samples from all decedents