The Colorado Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) Forensic Services Section is facing a historic backlog as it relates to its DNA discipline, with the driving factor being the significant impact of the Woods investigation on operations. In addition to detailing the plan to utilize existing (and proposed supplemental roll forward authority) funding to reduce the current backlog of sexual assault kits, and other long-term solutions, this page will serve as the landing spot for details and updates in one location.
Sex Assault Turnaround Time Dashboard
Sexual Assault Testing Plan Updates
- Latest information on casework and turnaround time can be found on the dashboard at the top of the page.
- Check back for updates on the testing plan.
CBI Scientist Training Overview & Hiring Updates
- It takes 1-2 years to train a forensic scientist. Training DNA scientists take approximately 2 years.
- February 2025-Currently 16 DNA Scientists working cases
February 2025- CBI has 15 DNA scientists in training. 10 of those will complete training in 2025. Remaining 5 will complete testing in mid-2026
February 2025- Hiring process to fill 8 additional DNA scientist positions in the hiring process.
Accountability
- Sex Assault Turnaround Time Dashboard–See above
- Forward Resolutions–The CBI has contracted with a Wisconsin consulting firm to assess its forensic services and operations. The team is conducting interviews, review policies, assessing operations, and surveying lab employees and stakeholders. The goal is to produce a report that assesses whether CBI is adhering to industry best practices and provides recommendations for improvements. Forward Resolutions was one of five organizations to bid for the contract, and its proposal stood out by offering a comprehensive assessment plan and the fastest turnaround, promising to deliver results within 85 working days.
- CBI Forensic Services Committee–Governor Polis issued Executive Order B 2024 002 creating the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Forensic Services Committee as part of the Governor’s continued efforts to make Colorado one of the top ten safest states. The Committee’s work will foster collaboration between a number of stakeholders and communities by providing a forum to discuss issues, concerns, and oversight related to forensic services provided by CBI.