To: Board of Supervisors
From: David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner
Report Title: National Integrated Ballistic Information Network Modernization Program FY26
☒Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT a Resolution authorizing the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to apply for, accept and approve grant funding, including amendments and extensions, pursuant to the grant guidelines, with the U.S. Department of Justice, National Integrated Ballistic Information (NIBIN) Modernization Program Grant, with an initial amount of $300,000, for the purchase of scientific equipment and support to the Comparative Evidence Unit for the Sheriff’s Forensic Services Toxicology Unit, for the initial period of October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2031.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Approval of this request will result in an initial revenue of $300,000. This will be 100% Federal revenue, with no county match requirement.
BACKGROUND:
The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff, Forensic Services Division operates an ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) Accredited Crime Laboratory providing County-wide forensic testing services. The Comparative Evidence Unit examines and processes firearm evidence utilizing a BrassTrax Acquisition System to enter cartridge casings into the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATFs) National Integrated Ballistic Identification Network (NIBIN).
The DOJ FY 2026 National Integrated Ballistic Information (NIBIN) Modernization Program grant funds are needed to replace outdated technology with new NIBIN-compatible equipment. Grant funds will be used to replace the aged BrassTrax Acquisition System, which will modernize core NIBIN capabilities, and expand the ability of the Comparative Evidence Unit to produce timely ballistic intelligence to law enforcement agencies aiding in criminal investigations.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
A negative action from the Board will result in a reduction in forensics firearm services, as the obsolete BrassTrax Acquisition System will not be replaced, leading to increases in turnaround time, backlogs, and delays in criminal investigations and prosecutions.
THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board
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IN THE MATTER OF Applying for and accepting the U.S. Department of Justice, National Integrated Ballistic Information (NIBIN) Modernization Program Grant.
WHEREAS, the County of Contra Costa is seeking funds available through the U.S. Department of Justice.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Supervisors authorizes the Sheriff-Coroner, Undersheriff, or the Sheriff’s Chief of Management Services, to execute for and on behalf of the County of Contra Costa, a public entity established under the laws of the State of California, any actions necessary for the purpose of obtaining federal financial assistance including grant modifications and extensions provided by the U.S. Department of Justice.
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