FY 2024 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program

The Mississippi Forensics Laboratory (MSFL), is an accredited, state funded forensic laboratory system, serving the state of Mississippi with a central full-service laboratory in Pearl and three regional laboratories located in Batesville, Meridian and the Gulf Coast.

The goal of the 2024 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program is to provide laboratories with the tools needed to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic services that they provide. Timeliness of services at the MSFL has experienced a sharp decline in the past three years due to a decreased workforce. Forensic staff retirements and resignations have crippled the laboratory’s capacity to meet caseload demands. Reduction in the backlog while maintaining quality will be the primary objective to improve timeliness of services.

To achieve a reduction in backlog, funds will be used to outsource unworked controlled substances to an accredited vendor laboratory for testing. Maintenance fees associated with MSFL ANAB accreditation will be funded. This grant support allows the continuation of the quality of services provided to the state of Mississippi.

Deliverables include a reduction in the backlog of drug chemistry cases that include unknown controlled substances that possibly contain opioid and other synthetic drugs. Additionally, certified analysts will maintain their professional status by acquiring continuing education units and the MSFL will maintain its accreditation.