FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

The Richland County Sheriff’s Department is currently seeking funds to enhance its capacity for DNA analysis through the DNA Backlog Reduction Program Formula Grant FY 2018.

With the implementation of this grant, the following goals will be achieved: reduction of backlogged DNA cases and increased laboratory capacity with the objective of an overall reduction in violent and nonviolent crimes in Richland County through a continuation of current analyst throughput (71 samples/month).

Without the grant-funded re-employment of the full time analyst and the full time technician, laboratory case throughput will be reduced by approximately 30 percent.

The project plan/method is to utilize the grant-funded full time analyst and full time technician along with the two county-funded full time DNA analysts and existing laboratory infrastructure to. Funds will also be used to purchase an updated Liquid Handling Instrument that would replace the current instrument which is over 10 years old and frequently down for repairs. This instrument will increase capacity by eliminating the poor functioning instrument and enhancing casework with the updated technology. Annual training for the DNA Analysts will allow for required continuing education.

NCA/NCF