FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

The FSB proposes to use these funds to continue to increase the laboratory's capacity to analyze DNA samples, reduce the DNA sample turnaround time, and reduce the number of backlogged DNA cases awaiting analysis. The MDPD FSB will fund six positions with this award. Three Criminalists will serologically screen cases submitted to the Forensic Biology Section (FBS) for the possible presence of biological material and forward selected items for DNA analysis. Also, these Criminalists will complete their training to become DNA caseworking analysts. Additionally, a Forensic Photographer will enhance case documentation by photographing each evidence package upon submission and individual evidence items as needed. Finally, two Police Property Evidence Specialists (PPES) will also be funded by this award. These two PPES will manage the flow of evidence within the FBS, scan case files for electronic archival, perform data entry associated with evidence submitted to the FBS and aid CODIS personnel in retrieving stored case folders.

The FSB will reduce its backlog of DNA cases by outsourcing casework associated with property crimes to a commercial DNA laboratory. This laboratory will conduct the DNA analysis and issue a court-ready report. To maximize the number of cases that can be outsourced, award funds are requested to pay overtime to FBS Criminalists in order to conduct the screening of the evidence, prepare the samples to be shipped, conduct the DNA technical review of returned data and upload eligible profiles to CODIS.

Also, funds are requested for travel to national DNA conferences and a site visit to the outsource laboratory. Additionally, new thermal cyclers for DNA amplification will be purchased to replace the discontinued model currently utilized by the FBS. The FSB has identified these goals for this project and has formulated a detailed plan to accomplish these goals.

Ultimately, through funding from this award, the FSB will be able to increase its capacity to analyze DNA cases and reduce its backlog. This funding will generate more DNA profiles for CODIS entry which will aid more investigations, thus contributing to the safety of Miami-Dade County’s residents. NCA/NCF