CEBR

DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program

The DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR) Program is administered by the U.S Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. This program provides funding to states and units of local government with existing crime laboratories to increase the capacity of publicly funded forensic DNA and DNA database laboratories to process more DNA samples, thereby helping to reduce the number of forensic DNA and DNA database samples awaiting analysis and/or prevent a backlog of forensic and database DNA samples.

The New Mexico Department of Public Safety (NMDPS) Forensic Laboratory Bureau (FLB) utilizes this funding to improve the quality and timeliness of statewide forensic DNA science services. This funding directly impacts the NMDPS FLB’s ability to provide valuable training to forensic DNA laboratory staff to meet the continuing education requirements designated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) DNA Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) as well as increase the ability to provide strategic overtime to lab employees. Additionally, the award will provide crucial funding to purchase lab supplies and replace antiquated equipment that will directly assist in the decrease of forensic DNA case backlogs.

For grant eligibility, please contact DPS.GMS@state.nm.us