FY 2015 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction Program - Maryland State Police

The Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division (MSP-FSD) requests funds under the 2015 DNA Backlog Reduction Program with the goal of focusing on DNA casework, in an effort to continue to reduce existing backlogs and prevent a future backlog build up while at the same time sustaining/improving turn-around time.

MSP-FSD has been very successful in the implementation of a long term project to control, significantly reduce and eventually eliminate the DNA casework backlog. This project is based on an approach that combines the use of in-house outsourcing and agency direct outsourcing of casework, as well as a tier approach and other streamlining techniques to improve the in-house operations. MSP-FSD's goal is to keep utilizing these techniques and therefore the requested funds are geared towards continuing these proven to be successful methods of addressing the casework backlog.

The federal funding from this award will be used for the following specific goals:

Goal 1: Reduce the backlog of forensic biology/DNA cases by outsourcing.
Goal 2: Maintain current laboratory capabilities and improve operations while preparing for the incorporation of the expanded CODIS Core loci panel by purchasing 6 new thermocyclers and 2 thermomixers and supplies that will maintain and enhance the laboratory’s goals.
Goal 3.: Provide required continuing education

MSP-FSD expects to analyze by outsourcing 135 DNA cases and maintain a backlog of less than 100 cases.

nca/ncf.