RECOMMENDATION(S):

ADOPT Resolution 2020/299 authorizing the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to apply for and accept the 2020 Paul Coverdell Forensic Services Improvement Grant, with the Governor's Office of Emergency Services, as fiscal agent, in an initial amount of $55,046 for support of forensic training for the period beginning January 1, 2021 through the end of the grant period.

FISCAL IMPACT:

$55,046, 100% Federal; No County match required (CFDA #16.742)

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of the Paul Coverdell Forensic Services Improvement Grant Program is to improve the quality and timeliness of forensic science services over current operations. The non-competitive funds are available for distribution during the period beginning January 1, 2021, through the end of the grant period. The Office of the Sheriff’s Forensic Services Division is an ANAB (ANSI-ASQ National Accreditation Board) accredited laboratory that has on-going training requirements to fulfill the accreditation criteria. This grant provides funding for DNA equipment and for annual training of forensic staff.