BJA FY24 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant for laboratory equipment.

he Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory (JCRCL) is responsible for analyzing evidence for multiple law enforcement agencies. Specifically, the drug chemistry, latent print, firearms, and forensic biology sections are for analyzing shared items of evidence. For example, a bag of fentanyl can be sent for drug testing, latent print processing, and swabbing for DNA. Processing enhancement capabilities are available that can increase safety for the analyst as well as increase recovery of potential evidence.

The JCRCL is requesting funding for a Full Spectrum Imaging System (FSIS II) and two MX908 (portable mass spectrometer). The processing enhancement capabilities of the FSIS II would greatly benefit multiple sections within the JCRCL. Processing drug packaging for latent prints has always presented risks when handled by the analyst for processing. The FSIS II allows for an analyst to reduce the handling necessary for the recovery process of potential evidence. The FSIS II also eliminates the need to introduce other chemicals typically used in latent print processing recovery techniques. Similarly, the FSIS II would allow for limited handling of items submitted to the laboratory for sequential processing; an analyst to visualize and recover latent prints as well as swab for potential DNA evidence; and faster processing of firearms to aid in meeting the turnaround workflow requirements. This equipment reduces handling and transferring of evidence items between sections of the laboratory and therefore minimizes the potential for contamination issues. It is also less destructive to evidence items that might be sentimental or be of high value to victims.

The MX908 is a field-testing instrument that can determine individual components of drug mixtures in the field. With the fentanyl crisis having fully gripped Colorado since 2020, implementation of a field-testing device for the West Metro Drug Task Force would be a massive benefit to the enforcement of opioid related crimes.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Emergency Services Section is also requesting funds for the deployment of an additional MX908 instrument for use in emergency response. A total of two MX908's will be requested for this grant.

Funds will enhance laboratory processing and field screening of materials suspected to contain controlled substances.