Michigan CEBR

The MSP FSD is seeking to evaluate new DNA extraction methods which will improve the recovery of DNA from challenging sample types such as fired cartridge cases and trace contact items, as well as establish a more robust inhibition mitigation protocol to improve the success rate of DNA profile generation from crime scene samples. In addition, FSD will establish a defined procedure to prevent poor quality data from continuing to DNA profile generation and streamline DNA casework profile interpretation suitability decision-making through the development of data-driven decision matrices. These efforts will serve to improve DNA recovery, reduce time spent on poor quality DNA data, and focus DNA casework resources on data of better quality for entry into the CODIS database. Further, these efforts will create capacity to expand submission policy allowances to include requests involving challenging sample types which are currently denied.