Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: 4/5ths
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Carlos G. Bolanos, Sheriff
Subject: Recognizing Unanticipated Revenue from the Office of Justice Programs - U.S. Department of Justice
RECOMMENDATION:
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Approve an Appropriation Transfer Request (ATR) in the amount of $350,448 to establish a budget appropriation and record revenue for the 2021 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program grant.
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BACKGROUND:
The Forensic DNA Backlog Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program grant, 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 efficiently and cost-effectively. These improvements are critical to preventing future DNA backlogs and to helping the criminal justice system use the full potential of DNA technology.
As of December 31, 2021, the Sheriff’s Office Forensic Laboratory had an estimated 1,163 backlogged cases awaiting DNA analysis. A backlogged case, as defined by the National Institute of Justice, is one that has not been tested 30 days after submission to the laboratory.
DISCUSSION:
The Sheriff’s Office applied for and has been awarded the 2021 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program grant in the amount of $350,448, for a period commencing October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2023. Funding will assist with overall turnaround time for the handling, screening, and analysis of forensic DNA samples, increase the throughput of the Sheriff’s Office Forensic Laboratory, and reduce existing DNA forensic casework backlogs.
The CEBR Program award will be applied towards funding travel and training expenses, purchasing supplies for use in evidence examination, and personnel expenses for overtime and extra-help employees.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This Appropriation Transfer Request accepts unanticipated revenue of $350,448 from the Office of Justice Programs - U.S. Department of Justice. The term of the 2021 DNA Capacity Enhancement and Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program grant is from October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2023. There is no Net County Cost.