FY 2018 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program

Recent sexual assault legislation enacted in New York State has resulted in a tremendous increase in sexual assault evidence collection kits submitted to the laboratory, essentially doubling the backlog.

The Section has hired a number of new staff and the DNA Casework laboratory is seeking funding for instrumentation, equipment, and software to address this backlog and to provide the tools required by both existing and additional staff. The increase in backlog has forced the lab to re-think our screening / analytical process and a new workflow for kit processing will soon be in place.

Casework, in conjunction with the Databank, seek funding to support the continued service of a LIMS/Workstation Support Coordinator. The availability of a LIMS Coordinator maximizes the record keeping and report preparation functions of the Section’s LIMS system as well as keeping production continuous with on-site workstation support.

Grant funding will cover costs for travel, meeting registration and workshops for both Casework and Databank staff to attend pertinent DNA related conferences and assist in satisfying continuing education requirements.

NCA/NCF