DNA Analysis Expansion

The Cumberland County (PA) District Attorney's Office (CCDAO) maintains and operates a ISO 17025 accredited multi-disciplinary forensic laboratory since 2001. Both traditional and Rapid DNA analysis are part of our forensic services and have produced dozens of casework successes. We wish to expand both the number of samples to be analyzed, and the spectrum of analysis.   

Our Forensic Investigation Division routinely collects, preserves, and analyzes latent DNA samples left behind at crime scenes and on submitted evidence for processing. DNA evidence submitted (1727 samples) have generated 1242 database hits resulting in 91 cases solved. We are currently limited by budgetary restraints on how many specimens we can process; we are seeking additional resources to expand our capabilities and continue to identify individuals involved in crime, exonerate those persons falsely accused of crimes, and assist victims of crime with restitution. Our primary service area is Cumberland County Pennsylvania, but we have assisted Dauphin, York, Perry, Franklin, and Adams counties with casework as well. Additionally, we assist the Pennsylvania State Police with cold case investigations statewide.

To this end, we humbly seek $284,000.00 in grant funding to expand our "traditional" DNA services with our two (2) ISO 17025 accentuated DNA laboratories at Bode Technology Group (private lab), and the Richland County Sheriff's Office (public lab). We would also like to expand our reach with Rapid DNA as well. 

Since 2017 the CCDAO has successfully operated a Rapid DNA instrument with the understanding any results are simply an investigative lead attempting a determination of the most probative value. Since 2020 we operate under the guidelines published on the FBI website "Non -CODIS Rapid DNA Considerations and Best Practices for Law Enforcement Use."