TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and any subsequent amendments between the City of Long Beach and the County of Los Angeles Sheriff's Department to hire a dedicated DNA Criminalist from the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Scientific Services Bureau. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
The Long Beach Police Department (Department) currently lacks a facility to conduct DNA testing in support of criminal investigations involving sexual assaults, homicides, etc. In the past, the Department forwarded DNA samples to local reference laboratories at great expense. The expense has limited the number of samples submitted. The Department proposes to enter into an MOU with the County of Los Angeles Sheriffs Department, to hire a dedicated DNA Criminalist whose sole function would be the testing of all DNA samples relevant to Department investigations. The DNA Criminalist would perform all relevant work in the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department Scientific Services Bureau Crime Laboratory. This proposal would dramatically increase the number of samples tested, thus increasing the likelihood of identification of perpetrators and successful prosecutions. The MOU may be terminated with a 30-day written notice by either party.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Richard Anthony on March 8, 2006 and Budget Management Officer David Wodynski on March 13,2006.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action on this matter is requested on April 4, 2006, in order to expedite execution of the MOU.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total annual cost for the DNA Criminalist is $120,000. Costs for FY06 and subsequent years will be covered by the annual State Supplemental Law Enforcement Funding grant, State COPS. There will be no impact to the General Fund through this action.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
ANTHONY W. BATTS
CHIEF OF POLICE
APPROVED:
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