U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

Award Information

Award #
2018-DN-BX-0079
Funding Category
Formula
Location
Congressional District
Status
Closed
Funding First Awarded
2018
Total funding (to date)
$209,355

Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2018, $209,355)

The average length of time it takes to process, record, screen and analyze a forensic DNA/biology case from submission of a request to the laboratory to delivery of forensic biology/DNA test result has increased to 108 days in 2017.

This jurisdiction currently has 14 certified casework DNA analysts who analyzed 3,998 samples in 2017 (approximately 24 samples per month per analyst). It is estimated that by the end of 2018 there will be approximately 305 backlogged forensic DNA cases. From 2010 to 2017 there has been an average annual increase of all cases received to be approximately 9%.

In order to reduce the current backlog of cases to be analyzed for DNA, our laboratory will require new laboratory supplies and equipment, access to training opportunities and travel monies, have a required external QAS audit and the capability to hire temporary laboratory technician support staff.

In the current laboratory operating budget, there is no allotment for equipment purchases. The service contract budget is insufficient to cover all of the labs instrumentation; and there is no money for overtime and travel, and grant funds would cover costs for these purchases and activities.

NCA/NCF

Date Created: September 5, 2018