DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction

The Erie County Forensic Laboratory performs forensic DNA analysis for the local, state and federal law enforcement agencies of Erie County, New York. Forensic DNA services are also provided for Niagara and Orleans counties, and occasionally for neighboring counties. The lab has 14 full-time forensic biologists and two DNA analysts assigned from Niagara County Crime Laboratory. Additionally, the Quality Assurance Coordinator performs DNA/Biology technical reviews. With the success of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) and heightened focus on violent crimes, DNA requests are steady beyond the lab’s capacity to analyze cases. The analysis of sexual assault kits is mandated by New York State. Meanwhile, advances in DNA technology have improved the capability of obtaining DNA profiles with multiple contributors, which is common in gun and overdose related crimes, but the complexity of the mixtures increases the turnaround time. Together, these influences have created a backlog and the need to reduce the number of samples awaiting DNA analysis.

The goals of this project include increasing the capacity of the DNA section, reducing the number of forensic DNA samples awaiting analysis, and preventing an increase to the existing backlog. To achieve the project goals, the lab will use this award to fund overtime for processing and DNA analysis on backlogged cases and to validate an automated method, thermal cyclers and STRmix with a new 3500 genetic analyzer. The award will also continue funding three forensic biologist positions previously funded by National Institute of Justice grant programs. Funding will also be used to manage the grant programmatic requirements, to purchase equipment necessary to increase long-term capacity and efficiency, and to purchase the necessary DNA supplies and maintenance contracts for DNA related software and equipment. Long-term equipment purchases include repeating pipettes, DNA lab computers, centrifuges and a thermal cycler, and support for the external quality assurance standards audit.

The long-term goal is to minimize the number of backlogged cases and provide a 30-day turn-around time for new cases. It is anticipated that the grant funded overtime to analyze DNA casework will decrease the turnaround time and decrease the number DNA samples awaiting analysis with the completion of 200 additional cases. Additionally, the salaries and fringe benefits funded by this program to retain three forensic biologists will increase the capacity and throughput of DNA samples by completing an additional 360 biology/DNA assignments.