BJA FY24 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program for the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Crime Laboratory

The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Crime Laboratory (SCCDACL) has a backlog of samples awaiting analysis, and due to Assembly Bill (AB) 1517, California State Senate Bill 22, and the Attorney General’s Report about processing non-investigative report sexual assault forensic evidence (SAFE) kits, the SCCDACL has observed an increase in samples submitted for DNA analysis. Additionally, the District Attorney's Office implemented a 7-day turnaround time for Integrated Ballistic Identification System (IBIS) entry, which now requires the DNA Unit to swab cartridge casings timelier. The DNA Unit will use grant funding towards a Criminalist position; a support/service agreement for the DNA laboratory information management system (LIMS); a support/service agreement for STRmix licenses; new software called DBLR (database likelihood ratios) and validation of this software; a QIAcube Connect to replace an older QIAcube unit that is being phased out (not yet obsolete); and Foster and Freeman alternate light source goggles. The outcome includes backlogged DNA cases will be processed to enter profiles into the Combined DNA Index System and increase capacity.