FY 2023 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program - Formula - Arkansas State CrimeLaboratory

It is the goal of the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory to use the “FY 2023 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program - Formula - Arkansas State Crime Laboratory” award to maintain and supplement the nationally-recognized sample throughput and efficiency while decreasing the number of backlogged DNA cases.  The objective is to utilize the funds provided in this solicitation for the purchase of additional equipment, for outsourcing of non-violent crime samples to vendor laboratories for backlog reduction, and for maintaining laboratory capacity enhancement originating from previous CEBR awards. 

The Arkansas State Crime Laboratory continues to face the challenge of a significant backlog with a staff insufficient to comfortably meet current submissions and also reduce the backlog. Efforts over many years have resulted in the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory achieving national recognition for efficiency with both funding and analyst capacity. However, insufficient staffing due to turn-over and long lead times for DNA analyst training continue to prevent meaningful gains in backlog reduction. Over the last year, efforts by the State have led to a 25% increase in Forensic DNA staff numbers, raising hopes that an in-roads to backlog reduction may finally be possible once the 10 trainees and 3 pending positions complete training. As a result of this significant increase in staffing, a shortage in critical analysis software and laboratory equipment is anticipated and improvements will be needed.

With this BJA FY 23 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program application, the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory is requesting funds to maintain 7 DNA Analyst trainee positions, including salaries, benefits, laboratory supplies, and continued training. Additionally, the laboratory is requesting funds to send backlogged non-violent crime samples to vendor laboratories while analysts remain in training. Last, the lab is requesting funds to replace or supplement laboratory equipment, as well as fully implement software to reduce analyst interpretation time and more efficiently capture relevant performance metrics with a goal of identifying areas for future efficiency improvement.