FY 2024 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction - Formula

The Houston Forensic Science Center (HFSC) is a uniquely independent laboratory that provides forensic services to the Houston Police Department, one of the largest police departments in the state of Texas. As is true for many forensic laboratories, HFSC is challenged to meet customer demand for DNA services and must continuously seek opportunities to streamline laboratory operations, alleviate bottlenecks in the testing process, and increase throughput capabilities. FY24 Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Formula funding is requested to support HFSC’s overall goals of processing crime scene samples for Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) entry and increasing the forensic biology/DNA section’s capacity to do so going forward.

Specifically, funds will be used to retain grant-funded personnel; outsource casework to an accredited vendor laboratory for analysis; contract with a qualified individual to perform DNA technical reviews; renew DNA mixture interpretation software licenses and maintenance support; and provide continuing education to forensic biology/DNA personnel. HFSC anticipates that a total of 1,474 cases can be processed, recorded, screened, and/or analyzed with grant funding during the FY24 award period.