BJA FY 2023 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences Forensic Genetics Laboratory (HCIFS-FGL) will use funds from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (“BJA”) DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program to increase the number of DNA CODIS eligible samples analyzed at HCIFS and to reduce turnaround times for CODIS entries.  Harris County is the largest county in Texas and the third largest county in the United States.  The HCIFS-FGL provides forensic DNA analysis to approximately 75 law enforcement agencies in the county, excluding the Houston Police Department. According to the Texas Crime Report for 2021, Harris County had an estimated population of 2.4 million people living outside the Houston city limits. Approximately 70,444 offenses were committed in Harris County comprised of ~11,625 personal crimes and ~58,819 property crimes.  The HCIFS-FGL received ~2,442 cases in 2022. We will use BJA grant funds for overtime as well as to purchase supplies and software maintenance/upgrades fees. Funds from this award will also be used to provide required continuing DNA education to laboratory staff through training and conference attendance in order to meet accreditation, licensing and certification requirements. BJA grant funds will increase the overall capacity and productivity of the HCIFS-FGL, which will make a significant impact on increasing the number of CODIS eligible samples analyzed and reducing the turnaround times for CODIS entries.