Pasco Sheriff's Office Cold Case Initiative: Solving Cold Cases with DNA

The requested funding from the National Institute of Justice will allow PSO to implement the following elements of the proposed initiative. The PSO in conjunction with FDLE will train and equip current PSO Forensic Investigators who are assigned to examine, collect, and prepare biological evidence for DNA testing. *The PSO Cold Case Supervisor will review cases referred by the Cold Case Detective and make recommendations concerning follow-up investigations or actions. *One hundred and forty one cases will be re-evaluated. The goal will be to have an estimated thirty five percent (forty nine cases) assigned to the CC Detective and fully investigated. This will include interviews, travel and lab testing. *The PSO will purchase equipment and supplies associated with the examination, collection, and preparation of biological evidence for DNA testing. Evidentiary items found suitable for DNA analysis will be submitted to FDLE for testing at no cost. If the items are not suited or accepted by FDLE, the items will be sent to an accredited laboratory for testing. * The CC Detective will ensure the active follow-up investigation of suspects identified through DNA analysis and when applicable, will submit completed investigations to the State Attorney's Office for prosecution. ca/ncf