Rapid DNA technology

Major Willie Stewart, Chief of Detectives, Property Crimes Division at East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office

In 2021, The Sheriff’s Office solicited earmarked funds from Congressman Garrett Graves for a Rapid DNA system. The Rapid DNA instrument can process single source crime scene evidence and or reference samples in 90 minutes. EBRSO will partner with the LSPCL to pilot a Rapid DNA program. Rapid DNA provides an opportunity to impact investigations by providing investigative leads in real-time. It can assist in quickly including or excluding potential suspects. The system is a powerful new technology that has the ability to greatly enhance our forensic capabilities. These can be operated by non-technical personnel with minimal training. EBRSO and LSPCL personnel are in the process of discussing how this Rapid DNA pilot project will be implemented. The funding obtained will be utilized to purchase a Rapid DNA instrument, test kits, IT support, training and validation services and consumables.

Data show enrolling arrestees’ DNA into the CODIS database early in their criminal careers has the biggest effect on deterrence and public safety.

Rapid DNA integration into the booking process ensures all qualifying arrestees’ DNA are automatically enrolled and searched against DNA from unsolved cases in the US National DNA Index System (NDIS) CODIS database within 90 minutes.

Decision to Support Implementation of the first rapid DNA station-

● We are very proud to be the first in the country to have this cutting-edge Rapid DNA technology that interfaces with local, state and national databases.

● Whereas typical DNA testing can take up to 30 days, Rapid DNA will come back to us in 90 minutes if a suspect’s DNA is linked to other crimes.

● This means that we get results before the suspect is even moved from the booking area.

4. This advanced technology will help us potentially solve violent crimes across the country, as well as exonerate anyone suspected of a crime, but truly innocent.

“Data show enrolling arrestees’ DNA into the CODIS database early in their criminal careers has the biggest effect on deterrence and public safety.”

Impacts rapid DNA having on agency’s mission-

● Our priority is public safety.

● We want to prevent crimes when possible,

● and solve crimes when they occur.

● We want to bring closure to families, and bring criminals to justice.

● Rapid DNA technology will help us do all of these things.

● When it links a suspect to other crimes, it allows us to solve those crimes and work to keep the suspect from committing others in the future.

Future of policing with rapid DNA technology-

● The speed and efficiency that this technology offers will enable us to link suspects to crimes committed not only locally and statewide within minutes, but also nationally in the same day.

● Rapid DNA will not only clear those suspected of a crime, but actually are innocent.

● It will expedite our ability to link suspects forensically to crimes they have committed.

● It will give us fast information before we release a suspect that may have committed other crimes elsewhere—preventing them from committing preying on more victims.