2024 DNA Capacity Enhancement Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program - Competitive

This application is for Federal assistance from the FY 2024 Competitive DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program. Funds are being sought to improve the backlog and turnaround time for cases requiring DNA analysis by increasing the capacity and laboratory efficiency for processing Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) eligible crime scene samples. State Law Enforcement Division expects to purchase and implement new and more efficient instruments and outsource training for new technicians to accomplish programmatic goals and objectives.

Funds will be used to purchase a SeqStudio 24 flex genetic analyzer, a Qiacube Connect, and two EZ2 Connect Fx extraction instruments to expand instrument capacity of the DNA Casework Department. The Department was granted eight additional DNA analyst positions during the FY21-22 budget year. The additional instruments will help accommodate these new analysts instrument needs and prevent instrumentation from becoming a bottleneck in the analysis process. Funds to outsource the instruments validation and performance checks are also being requested. Staffing limitations would make it difficult to complete these studies in a suitable timeframe; however, outsourcing these services will help keep DNA personnel focused on primary duties so that the backlog and turnaround time is not adversely affected.

Service contracts for instruments purchased on this grant will provide preventative maintenance and service repair, as needed, to keep these instruments operational. Instrument outages can negatively impact capacity and therefore DNA backlogs and turnaround time.