FY 2024 Competitive DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program - Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratory

Since 1989, the Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratories (KSPFL) have provided invaluable, no-cost analysis to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, serving over 120 counties and more than 400 law enforcement agencies. Over the past 35 years, significant technological advancements have revolutionized DNA analysis, and KSPFL remains dedicated to enhancing our capacity and efficiency to better serve the Commonwealth.

To achieve this goal, KSPFL is seeking funding through the BJA FY24 Competitive CEBR program to acquire a Hamilton STARlet instrument. This instrument will streamline the purification step of DNA extraction for both differential and non-differential samples, significantly increasing processing capabilities. Specifically, for differential samples such as those from sexual assault cases, the STARlet will work in tandem with other automated instruments, effectively doubling our daily processing capacity through a Direct-to-DNA approach. Additionally, the STARlet, as a liquid handling robot, is capable of performing quantification setup, normalization, and amplification, further optimizing our workflow.

Another advantage of acquiring the STARlet instrument is the opportunity to retire aging instruments that have served the laboratory for over a decade and now require frequent and costly repairs. By updating instrumentation, KSPFL aims to increase efficiency and capacity, reduce backlog, and expedite the reporting of cases to law enforcement agencies in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.