FY24 DNA Capacity & Backlog Formula Grant

The Maryland State Police – Forensic Sciences Division (MSP-FSD) is requesting funds under the 2024 BJA FY24 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program. The purpose is to reduce the existing DNA casework backlog through the outsourcing of Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) eligible casework while also enhancing in-house capacity by reconfiguring office space to accommodate two additional DNA analysts. 

Expected outcomes include the analysis of 150 property crimes by a private laboratory and the subsequent upload to of all qualifying DNA profiles from those cases by MSP-FSD and the removal of five existing cubicles from a report writing area followed by the addition of seven new cubicles in that area. The citizens and criminal justice stakeholders of all 24 Maryland jurisdictions are the intended beneficiaries of the project. The outsourcing funds will be available for use on cases received from the Maryland State Police as well as from any of the 150 law enforcement agencies throughout the state served by MSP-FSD. The cubicles will specifically accommodate two new Allied Forensic Scientists from Charles County, whose addition will allow for more efficient testing of cases from Charles County, which is the top submitter of DNA cases to MSP-FSD.