Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2018, $841,009)
The Oregon State Police (OSP), Forensic Services Division (FSD) provides scientific, technical and investigative support to the criminal justice system through the forensic analysis of evidence. The Division, accredited by ASCLD/LAB-International since 2006 to the ISO:IEC 17025:2005 and ASCLD/LAB Supplemental standards, provides the only full service forensic laboratory system in the state.
The FSD provides service to all criminal justice agencies from its five forensic laboratories located in Portland, Springfield, Central Point, Bend, and Pendleton. There are 141 authorized positions in the division.
Backlog - The backlog in Biology Processing and DNA is due mainly to a change in state law requiring the mandatory submission and testing of all Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence (SAFE) kits. Agencies across the state continue to submit previously un-submitted SAFE kits. As of January 2016, a statewide backlog of 5,600 previously un-submitted SAFE kits was identified.
In addition, the FBI mandated that all DNA laboratories with access to CODIS (COmbined DNA Index System) transition to new technology by January 2017. This transition required all OSP FSD DNA analysts to be trained in the new technology. As a result, only rush cases (cases with pending trial dates and cases with a public safety concern) were being completed for a four month period in 2017.
To reduce the casework backlogs and database sample backlog, OSP, FSD is proposing the use of DNA CEBR grant funds to provide personnel, overtime, purchase equipment (Qiagen QIASymphony), and purchase a computer and software (STRmix probabilistic genotyping).
As part of this DNA CEBR Grant proposal, funds would also be used to provide the required continuing education for all analysts to maintain proficiency and continued access to National DNA Index System (NDIS).
To ensure compliance with the FBI Quality Assurance Standards, OSP FSD would undergo an external audit of the DNA casework and databasing sections during the grant period.
nca/ncf