Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant FY 2015- Utah Department of Public Safety

The Utah Bureau of Forensic Services (UBFS) is requesting $63,597 in 2015 Coverdell grant base/formula funds for the UBFS, Intermountain West Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory (IWRCFL), and the Utah Bureau of Forensic Toxicology (UBFT). These three laboratories comprise the Utah State forensic laboratory system. The funding would be used to target three of our more pressing issues: manpower, equipment maintenance and training. Funding is requested to continue a part-time Program Specialist in the IWRCFL to maintain or decrease the existing case backlog and turnaround time. The UBFT would like to purchase back-up auxiliary units and consumables for GCMS and LCMSMS instruments to perform necessary preventative maintenance procedures on the instruments to avoid downtime and subsequent delays in testing. Additionally, travel and training are requested by the UBFS and UBFT so analysts can stay current in their respective disciplines and obtain or maintain certification in those disciplines. Utilizing Coverdell funds in these sections of the laboratory system will help to improve the quality, efficiency and timeliness of forensic science services for the State of Utah. nca/ncf