ID STARlet Robotic System

The Washington State Patrol is pursuing a sole source procurement for three ID STARlet Robotic Systems from Hamilton Company, with two units designated for the Vancouver Crime Laboratory and one for the Cheney Crime Laboratory. These forensic DNA analysis systems are designed for automated sample and liquid handling to upgrade testing processing capacity. The procurement is specifically targeted at enhancing forensic DNA testing capabilities through advanced robotic systems that meet Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methodology (SWGDAM) guidelines. The opportunity was posted on February 27, 2025, with interested offerors required to submit capability statements within 10 calendar days of the posting date. The procurement covers comprehensive system deliverables including base chassis, autoload barcode scanners, modular arms, channel pairs, teaching needles, UV kits, system controllers, and associated accessories. The purchase also includes installation services, engineering support, method programming, operator training, and consumables. The final purchase order is scheduled to be issued on or after March 25, 2025, and will close on or before October 1, 2025.

The procurement is funded through federal DNA Backlog Reduction grant awards (15PBJA-22-GG-01729-DNAX and 15PBJA-23-GG-01376-DNAX), with a total contract value of $297,926.12, which includes equipment and applicable taxes. There are no specific set-aside designations mentioned for disadvantaged enterprises. The procurement involves a trade-in of two existing Hamilton AutoLys instruments from the Vancouver Crime Laboratory that have experienced operational disruptions. The sole source justification indicates that Hamilton is the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of these specific robotic systems, with no alternative vendors capable of meeting the precise forensic laboratory requirements. Funding will be split between account codes DB23 ($128,580.91) and DB21 ($169,345.21), with payment terms set at Net 30 F.O.B. The procurement covers jurisdictions including Spokane County, Clark County, Clarkston City, Spokane City, and Spokane Valley City, with a focus on enhancing statewide forensic DNA testing infrastructure.