Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Carlos G. Bolanos, Sheriff
Subject: 2019 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Adopt a resolution accepting the 2019 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program grant award in the amount of $290,899, for the term of January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2021.
body
BACKGROUND:
The Forensic DNA Backlog Capacity Enhancement and Reduction Program through the U.S. Department of Justice, National Institute of Justice, offers an opportunity for government entities with existing crime laboratories that conduct DNA analysis to handle, screen, and analyze backlogged forensic DNA casework samples. This grant program also assists with improving DNA laboratory infrastructure and analysis capacity so that forensic DNA samples can be processed more efficiently and cost effectively. These improvements reduce current and prevent future backlogs in DNA testing, which helps the criminal justice system maximize the benefits of DNA technology.
The San Mateo County Lab follows the mandated turnaround times for sexual assault case testing and has dedicated an increasing amount of time to processing and testing cold case evidence. Recent lab work in a number of these cases has allowed law enforcement and prosecutors to identify perpetrators of some of the County's most serious crimes and to seek justice for the victims in court.
As of December 31, 2018, the Sheriff's Office Forensic Laboratory had approximately 694 backlogged cases awaiting DNA analysis for property crimes and crimes against persons. The Forensic Laboratory has no backlog, however, with respect to sexual assault kit processing, DNA analysis, and uploading qualifying DNA profiles to the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS, the national DNA database maintained by the FBI). The National Institute of Justice defines a backlogged case as on...
Click here for full text