FY 2019 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program - Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office

The Forensic Biology Unit (FBU) of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Crime Laboratory is responsible for analyzing evidentiary material associated with criminal investigations for over 28 municipalities, the school systems and local Federal agencies as needed. The overarching goal of this proposal is to decrease turnaround times and improve casework processing efficiencies. To achieve this goal, the FBU is proposing to support two full-time Forensic Scientists whose responsibilities include evidence screening for downstream DNA analysis. In addition, the FBU would purchase an NDIS approved Rapid DNA Analysis instrument providing the FBU with the capacity to process reference sample buccal swabs in less than two hours. Furthermore, the FBU will contract with Marshall University for another Technical Assistance Program intern. The intern, who will be pre-prepared in FBU methodologies, will complete a laboratory directed validation project aimed at improving laboratory efficiency.

NCA/NCF