NIJ2015 Capacity Enhancement Grant

Project Goals:
1. Ensure that all backlog cases in Kansas are processed for the presence of biological material and properly analyzed with STR technology and the results eligible for upload are entered into CODIS.
2. Generate investigative leads or possible suspects for ‘no suspect’ cases through the use of CODIS.

Project Objectives:
1. Improve DNA analysis capacity of forensic laboratory.
2. Reduce backlogs of all case types.
Problem:
In order to achieve these goals, cases must be screened for the presence of biological material and processed through DNA testing, in a timely manner, which with the current staffing is near that state. The DNA analysis must be completed and the results entered into CODIS. While the section has made significant inroads regarding backlogs, there is still a need to improve the equipment to allow for more efficient use of time. The Topeka Laboratory has on contract one 3500 Genetic Analyzer. Once that is operational, we will have two different types of analyzers with separate procedures, interpretations and issues. The purchase of the three 3500 Genetic Analyzers for the other two satellite labs and one more in Topeka will get all analysts using the same equipment, policies and procedures.
Also included on this grant are the two positions, one full-time DNA analyst and one part time laboratory technician. The full time DNA analyst has made a significant difference in the backlog of cases in the Kansas City Laboratory.
The laboratory technician has allowed the fulltime staff in Great Bend to concentrate more on case work while she does those non-case work jobs that are vital to the section but do not require the level of training seen with the DNA analysts.

Design and Methods
To decrease the DNA cases currently backlogged at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, there are several steps that can aid in alleviating this backlog
1. By implementing the 3500 Genetic Analyzers, which will halve the time needed to the DNA analysis to occur.
2. By continuing to maintain the funding for the two positions, which will allow for more cases to be completed.

nca/ncf.