The kern county district attorneys office forensic science division (kern regional crime laboratory) proposes to implement a capacity expansion project

The Kern County District Attorney's Office received a $420,065 Formula Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance under the Comprehensive Forensic DNA Analysis Grant Program (CFDA 16.036). The grant funding will enable the Kern Regional Crime Laboratory to implement a capacity expansion project to improve the biological evidence screening process and reduce bottlenecks in the DNA typing workflow. Key activities include purchasing instruments, validating equipment, procuring DNA reagent kits, and integrating the new capabilities into the laboratory's evidence testing processes. The expected outcomes are to enhance the biological stain identification for downstream DNA testing, expedite training of new analysts, expand the volume and turnaround time of DNA samples processed, and analyze more Combined DNA Index System (CODIS)-eligible samples. The grant award period is from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026.

The purpose is to improve the biological evidence screening process and relieve bottle necks in the DNA typing process at the kern regional crime laboratory. Project activities include instrument purchases; validation or performance check, as required by accreditation standards; DNA reagent kit purchases; and implementation into evidence testing workflows. Expected outcomes include improving biological stain location for potential downstream DNA testing, expediting training of new analysts, expanding capacity of typed DNA samples (quantity and turnaround time), and DNA analysis of the combined DNA index system eligible samples. The criminal justice system and citizens of kern county are the intended beneficiaries of the project.