Modified Sexual Assault Workflow

On August 22nd, 2016 the National Forensic Laboratory Services (NFLS) is implementing an improved internal workflow related to the processing of sexual assault submissions. With this new workflow, referred to as “Direct-to-DNA”, sexual assault investigations will benefit from a faster upload of eligible DNA profiles to CODIS while simultaneously improving laboratory efficiency through reduced serology testing. More specifically, swabs from sexual assault kits are no longer tested for the presence of semen prior to DNA typing. As a result, please note the following important changes related to sexual assault submissions:

1The new workflow is applicable to all laboratory submissions including those received prior to August 22nd, 2016.

The forensic report from Biology will no longer contain results pertaining to the presence of semen on sexual assault kit swabs. After receiving the forensic report and assessing the forensic value of the DNA typing profiles obtained, clients can contact the Forensic Assessment Center to request a semen examination to be completed if deemed necessary. Clients are encouraged to consult with the author of the biology report or to contact the Forensic Assessment Center if any assistance is required about the semen examination request.

1. The target completion time for a semen examination request is 10 days.

2. The Forensic Assessment Center is applying revised exhibit acceptance guidelines that focus on accepting only the most probative items from the sexual assault kit. This should reduce the number of non-swab items being approved as part of a first laboratory submission.