Oklahoma City Police Department DNA Backlog Reduction Project

The Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) Forensic DNA laboratory continues to see an increase in case submission requests. During 2022, the DNA laboratory backlog has increased by 57% while staffing levels have remained static.

OCPD DNA laboratory is applying for 2023 CEBR Federal award funds to assist with increasing the number of CODIS eligible DNA cases which can be processed effectively by funding DNA analyst overtime hours to process backlog CODIS viable DNA samples as well as pursuing external vendor laboratory DNA testing of approximately 100 additional DNA cases. By funding analyst overtime and external casework processing assistance, this project anticipates delivering an increase in CODIS profiles as well as improved turn around times on outstanding DNA requests.

The department also intends to expand DNA casework capacity by a remodel  expansion of the post PCR laboratory space to allow more post amplification activities to occur, purchase of additional upgraded DNA genotyping software and the addition of robotic DNA plate set up instrument which would maximize the capacity of DNA samples that could be processed on the DNA sequencing workflow while freeing analyst time from this process.

Funding is also being sought to allow 4 analysts to attend DNA training conferences to meet continuous education requirements as outlined in the FBI QAS.