The phoenix police department laboratory services bureau (PPD-LSB) is responsible for the analysis of evidentiary material associated with criminal investigations within the city limits of phoenix,…

The City of Phoenix Police Department Laboratory Services Bureau (PPD-LSB) was awarded a $651,068 Formula Grant under the Bureau of Justice Assistance's Comprehensive Forensic DNA Analysis Grant Program (CFDA 16.036). The grant will be used to:

1. Increase the number of eligible Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) samples by providing overtime for PPD-LSB DNA analysts to process 30 additional cases, including sample preparation, analysis, report writing, and technical/administrative review.

2. Outsource approximately 350 backlogged DNA cases to accredited private laboratories to increase the number of eligible CODIS samples.

3. Provide continuing education and training for the PPD-LSB CODIS administrator, DNA technical leader, and DNA analysts to improve the efficiency and capacity of the forensic DNA operations.

The grant award period is from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026, with the goal of reducing DNA evidence backlogs and enhancing the PPD-LSB's forensic DNA analysis capabilities to better serve the citizens of Phoenix, Arizona.

The phoenix police department laboratory services bureau (PPD-LSB) is responsible for the analysis of evidentiary material associated with criminal investigations within the city limits of phoenix, arizona. The PPD-lsbs forensic DNA section is responsible for the DNA analysis of biological evidence. The purpose of this project is to improve forensic DNA operations by increasing the analytical capacity and decreasing the number of backlogged cases in service to the citizens of phoenix. The FY24 formula DNA capacity enhancement and backlog reduction (cebr) program funds will be used for the following goals: increase the number of eligible combined DNA index system (codis) samples developed by providing overtime for PPD-LSB DNA analysts to 30 cases for DNA analysis to include preparing and processing samples for DNA in the laboratory; interpret and write reports; review laboratory batch paperwork; technically and administratively review the reports; increase the number of eligible codis samples developed by outsourcing approximately 350 backlogged cases to accredited private laboratories; provide continuing education training and mandatory training for the PPD-LSB codis administrator and DNA technical leader; and provide continuing education for DNA analysts and/or the ability to research new technology by the DNA technical leader to increase the efficiency and capacity of the PPD-LSB.