To: Board of Supervisors
From: David O. Livingston, Sheriff-Coroner
Report Title: 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement of Backlog Reduction Program (CEBR) Grant
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT a Resolution authorizing the Sheriff-Coroner, or designee, to apply for and accept grant funding, including amendments and extensions, pursuant to the grant guidelines, with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program Grant, with an initial amount of up to $269,949, for the purchase of scientific equipment and support of DNA analysts for the Sheriff’s Forensic Services DNA Unit, for the initial period of January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2028.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Approval of this request will result in an initial revenue of $269,949. 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 able to provide County-wide Forensic DNA testing services. The DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program grant funds are needed to ensure the efficient processing of DNA evidence. Grant funds will be used to support DNA analysts that process DNA samples collected from crime scenes. In addition, grant funds will be used to purchase consumables and scientific equipment allowing for high throughout DNA extraction, quantification, and detection. The 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction Program ensures state-of the art forensic DNA testing is available to law enforcement agencies aiding criminal investigations.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
A negative action from the Board will result in an increase in the DNA case backlog, an increase in the turnaround time for DNA sample processing and contribute to delays in criminal 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, Office of Justice Programs, 2026 DNA Capacity Enhancement of Backlog Reduction 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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