FBI clears 1.8M-sample DNA backlog, shifts to Rapid DNA

The FBI says it eliminated a backlog of about 1.81 million federally collected DNA samples that built up after expanded collection from immigration detainees. The bureau requested 45 positions and $23.4 million for fiscal 2027, plus $11.6 million to deploy Rapid DNA at high-volume booking sites.

• Backlog peaked near 1.8 million samples, growing by about 75,000 a month by end of FY2024
• Border apprehension drop cut incoming volume to roughly 40,000 samples per month
• CODIS holds 20.3 million offender and 6.4 million arrestee profiles
• Rapid DNA produces a profile from a cheek swab in one to two hours