Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2019, $378,706)
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office, Forensic Science Division (WCSO-FSD) is the agency that is responsible for analyzing forensic evidence associated with criminal investigations for all state and local law enforcement agencies within the northern region of the state of Nevada. With the passing of legislation requiring all sexual assault kits collected in Nevada be tested within 120 days of receipt into the laboratory and a constant rise in the population, the demand for DNA testing has increased significantly and the DNA backlog continues to grow. This award will be specifically used for the following goals: 1) Provide continuing education for DNA Criminalists in the laboratory and 2) Increase the capacity and capabilities of the WCSO-FSD casework and databasing laboratory. This award will be used to create and maintain a minimal backlog of cases pending DNA analysis by utilizing funds to send at least 85 cases to a private laboratory for testing. This award will also be used to pay for overtime costs associated with the review of DNA cases. Grant funds will be utilized to pay for supplies required to complete testing on overtime cases and supplies needed as part of instrument validations. This award will also purchase 2 pieces of equipment along with a one year service contract and will also fund travel and training for the Biology Unit.