State of Rhode Island Forensic Science Improvement and Accreditation

2024 Coverdell Program Abstract

URI State Crime Lab – The availability of experienced Forensic Firearms & Tool Mark Examiners is extremely limited, locally, regionally, and nationally. The ability of the ATF to train examiners is limited to 12 – 14 examiners a year. The Laboratory needs to prepare for the replacement of its examiners through an internal/external training process for new examiners.
RI Department of Health Forensic – The lab will utilize Coverdell funds to maintain the scope of accreditation by our accrediting body. Funds will pay travel and registration costs for trainings and conferences to keep abreast of new methods and drugs.  Funds are also requested for overtime in the Forensic Toxicology and Forensic Drug Chemistry labs to improve casework backlogs.
RI Office of State Medical Examiners (OSME) – Office of State Medical Examiners jurisdiction encompasses all deaths that occur within the state of RI. The burden of investigating a continued high rate of opioid related deaths is a continuing challenge to the office. A quality assurance needs assessment has identified several key areas that require improvement to facilitate better workflow and efficiency: digital radiography, evidence room and autopsy room operations, scene investigations and additional records management support. Funding is being requested to address these critical areas and would provide the means necessary to assist our office in working more efficiently.
RI Department of Public Safety-RI State Police Forensic Services Unit (FSU) - The Rhode Island State Police Forensic Services Unit (FSU) will seek to maintain accreditation to the International Organization for Standardization ISO/IEC 17020 through the American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) The activities outlined support this effort, as the activities allow members of the FSU to attend vital trainings and conferences, as well as undergo necessary certification tests that directly support the goal of maintaining accreditation. Purchasing updated laboratory equipment will ensure the FSU is able to provide quality services to client agencies. The accreditation process is an ongoing effort which requires careful and constant monitoring.