FY22 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is requesting $293,954 in 2022 Coverdell grant formula funds for the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services (UBFS), Intermountain West Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory (IWRCFL), the Utah Public Health Laboratory–Forensic Toxicology (UPHL-Tox), and the Salt Lake City Police Department Crime Laboratory (SLCPD CL). These laboratories include both the state forensic laboratory system and a local laboratory serving the state’s capital city. Funding would be used to target four pressing issues in opioid and non-opioid related areas: personnel, supplies and equipment maintenance, training, and accreditation. Funding is requested to retain a part-time Program Specialist and part time Forensic Scientist and overtime at the IWRCFL, and a part time Forensic Scientist at the UBFS. The UPHL-Tox would like to purchase consumables and supplies to perform maintenance on scientific instruments used for analysis of opioids and other controlled substances. Training is requested by the UBFS, and UPHL-Tox so that analysts can maintain expertise and certification in their respective disciplines. Funding to maintain accreditation is needed for the SLCPD CL. Utilizing Coverdell funds in this manner will help to improve the quality, efficiency, and timeliness of forensic science services for the State of Utah.