Miami-Dade Police Department DNA CEBR Formula Program

As part of the Forensic DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program, the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD) Forensic Services Division (FSD) Crime Laboratory (CL) will receive $899,388 from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) based on data obtained from the 2021 Florida Uniform Crime Report. The FSD CL proposes to utilize these funds to continue to increase the laboratory’s capacity to analyze samples, reduce the DNA sample turnaround time, and reduce the number of backlogged DNA cases awaiting analysis.

The MDPD FSD CL will fund seven positions with this award. Four Criminalists will process cases submitted to the Forensic Biology Section (FBS) to include serological and DNA analysis. Two Police Crime Scene Technicians will perform FBS daily tasks such as preparing reagents, monitoring levels of inventory, receiving/stocking all supplies and consumables, cleaning glassware, maintaining instruments, and preparing/initiating DNA sample processing.

The FBS prioritizes violent crimes cases such as sexual assaults and homicides; however, property crime cases comprise a majority of the DNA case submissions. The FSD CL will reduce its backlog of DNA cases utilizing overtime funded by this award to process the portion of property crimes cases that cannot be processed during the standard 40-hour work schedule. Furthermore, funds are being requested to cover associated fees for attendance at national DNA conferences in support of continuing education requirements.

The FSD CL has identified the project goals and objectives and has formulated a detailed plan to accomplish these goals. Through funding from this award, the FSD CL will increase its capacity to analyze DNA cases efficiently and within a timely manner. This funding will generate more DNA profiles for CODIS entry and aid more investigations, further contributing to the safety of Miami-Dade County’s residents.