FY 2016 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program

The Prince George’s County Forensic Science Division, an ISO 17025 ASCLD-LAB accredited Laboratory (ALI-375-T), is requesting $171,258.00 under the FY16 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program for the purpose of: (1)- Trade in 4 old Thermal Cyclers for 4 new Veriti 96 well Thermal Cyclers (2)- Purchases of DNA Reagents to complete 70 cases in-house, (3)-Continuing education for 8 DNA Staff members (4)-Purchase of 14 28” Computer Monitors and (5)-Outsource 46 backlogged cases. In the last two years the DNA Unit has experienced severe staff shortages with the loss of 4 staff members and the medical incapacitation of the remaining three members two of whom have resigned. The laboratory is slowly recovering with the return of one former staff member, the transfer of one member from the Drug Analysis Laboratory and the addition of three new DNA Analysts Trainees, all of whom are still in training. Federal grants have allowed the DNA laboratory to maintain its operation in spite of these setbacks. In addition, the county continues to monitor funding for critical operation to ensure that funds are utilized in a meaningful way. The County with a population of 904,430 (2014) continues to see a relatively high amount of violent crimes. This County ranks 2nd to Baltimore City in its crime rate in Maryland. Although there has been a slight reduction over the past year, the proximity to Washington DC underscores the need for the Prince George’s County DNA Laboratory to be fully equipped ready and able to reduce its DNA backlog and respond at a moment’s notice for all requests for service. The County continues to struggle financially compared to its surrounding jurisdictions resulting in limited funding for DNA. The use of grant funds from this grant will ensure that our analysts maintain and keep abreast of the changing technologies and meet their continuing education obligation as well as continue to produce an excellent product. nca/ncf