Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant FY 2017 - Utah Department of Public Safety

Grant funding will be used to target three of our more pressing issues: manpower, equipment replacement and maintenance of existing equipment, and training.
Specifically, funding will be used to continue a part-time Program Specialist in the IWRCFL to help maintain or decrease the existing case backlog and turnaround time. The IWRCL is also in need of funding to replace an obsolete CD/DVD printer used to provide professional case analysis results to their customers. To enhance accuracy of analyses, and avoid downtime and subsequent delays in testing, the UBFT would like to purchase consumables supplies (such as LC columns) and repair kits to rebuild pumps and perform necessary preventative maintenance on the GC/MS and LC/MS/MS instruments. 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