Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2023, $488,916)
The purpose of this project is to reduce the backlog and turnaround time of DNA evidence samples that could contain potential CODIS profiles, as well as to enhance the overall capacity of the DNA Bureau in analyzing these samples. Project activities include analyzing a minimum of 500 backlogged DNA cases focusing on homicides and sexual assault cases using overtime funds; funding required continuing educational training opportunities for DNA analysts and supplemental training courses for DNA analyst trainees; acquiring eight new centrifuges to increase the efficiency of the DNA extraction procedure; outsourcing the validation of the Qiagen's Investigator Casework Go! Kit and funding modifications to our current in-house DNA LIMS systems to integrate more efficient technologies into our workflow by providing overtime funds for an in-house programmer. The expected outcomes of these activities include the reduction of DNA casework backlog, especially in homicide and sexual assault cases, and the ability to handle more casework to meet the growing demand for services. The primary beneficiaries of this project are the residents of the County of Orange, California, who will benefit from the reduced backlog and turnaround times of DNA samples, which will provide local law enforcement agencies with potential leads to investigate crimes in a more timely manner. By assisting law enforcement in identifying and detaining perpetrators, this project aims to prevent further victimization of the general population.