FY 2016 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program Grant for Orange County Crime Laboratory

Funds from this grant will be used to address three main goals and associated objectives:

1) Decrease casework turnaround time (TAT) and increase DNA laboratory capacity by purchasing a third genetic analyzer and replacing seven thermal cyclers past manufacturer end-of-life.

2) Provide DNA Advisor Board (DAB) required continuing education to seven DNA analysts

3) Reduce the backlog of unanalyzed forensic DNA cases by analyzing a minimum of 500 backlogged property crime DNA cases using grant funded overtime and purchased supplies.

By using the 2016 CEBR program grant funds for the above goals, the Orange County Crime Laboratory (OCCL) will be able to increase its capacity and reduce turnaround times. The OCCL will replace older thermal cyclers (that are no longer manufactured) with new technology models, and increase the number of genetic analyzers from two instruments to three. The laboratory has experienced an increase in the number of sexual assault kits submitted for analysis beginning January 1, 2016 due to the passage of California’s AB 1517 “Rape Kit” bill. A shift in personnel to handle this increase of sexual assault casework, and the increased submissions of property crime cases have both increased the property crime case backlog. Grant funded overtime and reagents will help reduce this backlog. Continuing education funded by the grant will provide DNA analysts the opportunity to learn about new technology and instrumentation for purchase and implementation in the laboratory. The provided training will satisfy the yearly DNA Advisory Board’s requirement for continuing education of seven DNA analysts.
nca/ncf