HomeMy WebLinkAboutBack-Up DocumentsGOALS, OBJECTIVES & DELIVERABLES
Goal 1: Solve and Prosecute Violent Cold Cases.
OBJECTIVE la:
Strengthen Collaborations.
FISCAL YEAR: 2025
QUARTER: 1
DELIVERABLE:
MOU.
Agreement between MPD,
SAO and Miami -Dade Lab
outlining duties and
responsibilities for the
project.
FISCAL YEAR: 2025
QUARTER: 2
DELIVERABLE:
Quarterly coordinated
meetings. MPD, SAO
and Miami -Dade Forensic
Lab will discuss updates
on forensic advancements
and case progress.
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
(includes all years)
QUARTER: Ongoing
OBJECTIVE 1 b:
Assessment and
prioritization of qualifying
cold cases.
FISCAL YEAR: 2025
QUARTER: 2
DELIVERABLE:
Certified Inventory.
Completed inventory of
MPD's backlog of violent
cold cases with existing
suspect DNA profiles.
FISCAL YEAR: 2025
QUARTER: 3
DELIVERABLE:
Cold Case Selection
List.
Violent cold cases from
the completed inventory
will be selected for
investigation. Selection
based on availability of
physical evidence,
potential for DNA
FISCAL YEAR: 2025
QUARTER: 4
1
analysis, and likelihood of
prosecutorial success.
DELIVERABLE:
Case Review Reports.
Quarterly reports detailing
the status and findings from
the case reviews, including
challenges faced and the
impact of any new forensic
evidence uncovered.
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
(includes all years)
QUARTER: Ongoing
OBJECTIVE lc:
Evidence Processing and
Analysis.
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
(includes all years)
QUARTER: Ongoing
DELIVERABLE:
DNA Analysis Outcomes.
Annual report summarizing
DNA processing results,
including comparison
against national DNA
databases and any
identifications made.
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
(includes all years)
QUARTER: 4
Goal 2: Enhance Justice Delivery.
OBJECTIVE 2a:
FISCAL YEAR: 2026
QUARTER: Ongoing
Prosecutorial Preparation.
DELIVERABLE:
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
QUARTER: 4
Prosecutorial Reports.
Annual prosecutorial reports
from SAO prepared for cases
moving to trial, outlining
evidence, witness testimony,
and forensic findings.
2
Goal 3: Improve Investigative Processes.
OBJECTIVE 3a.
Community Engagement
and Support.
FISCAL YEAR: 2026
QUARTER: Ongoing
DELIVERABLE:
Annual Community
Engagement Review.
Annual review of community
engagement activities such
as "Homicide Survivor's
Coming Together."
Adjustments made to the
investigation process based
on community input.
FISCAL YEAR: Ongoing
QUARTER: 4
OBJECTIVE 3b.
Codify Success and Address
Challenges.
FISCAL YEAR: 2027
QUARTER: 4
DELIVERABLE:
Final Report.
Document detailing
successes, challenges and
lessons learned over the
36- month project period.
Presented to MPD Office
of the Chief, SAO and
Miami -Dade Forensic Lab.
FISCAL YEAR: 2027
QUARTER: 4
3
Budget Summary
Budget Summary
Note: Any errors detected on this page should be fixed on the corresponding Budget Detail tab.
Year 1
Year 2
(if needed)
Year 3
(if needed)
Year 4
(if needed)
Year S
(if needed)
Budget Category
Federal Request
Non -Federal
Request
Federal Request
Non -Federal
Request
Federal Request
Non -Federal
Request
Federal Request
Non -Federal
Request
Federal Request
Non -Federal
Request
Total(s)
A. Personnel
$71,111
$0
$161,329
$0
$164,558
50
$0
$0
$0
$0
$396,998
B. Fringe Benefits
$1,033
$0
$2,342
50
$2,389
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$5,764
C. Travel
$0
$0
$9,055
50
$9,055
$0
50
$0
$0
$0
$18,110
D. Equipment
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
E. Supplies
$484
$0
50
$0
50
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$484
F. Construction
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
G. Subawards (Subgrants)
$27,261
$0
$25,691
$0
$25,691
$0
$0
$0
$0
50
$78,644
H. Procurement Contracts
$0
$0
$0
50
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
I. Other
$0
$0
50
50
$0
50
50
50
$0
$0
$0
Total Direct Costs
$99,889
50
$198,412
$0
5201,693
$0
50
50
50
50
5500,000
J. Indirect Costs
$0
50
$o
$0
50
$0
$0
50
50
So
50
Total Project Costs
$99,889
50
$198,417
50
$201,693
$0
$0
$0
50
$0
$500,000
Does this budget contain conference costs which is defined broadly to include meetings, retreats, seminars, symposia, and training activities? - Y/N No
1
BUDGET NARRATIVE
Year 1
A. Personnel - $71,111
Note: The City of Miami must have the award contract with DOJ signed and executed before City of Miami
Police and partners can begin working on the project. The contract execution process is expected to take up
the first 4 months of Year 1.
Five Detectives from the Cold Case Detail, which include a Supervising Sargeant (Project Coordinator)
and Lieutenant (Asst. Program Manager) will work overtime for a period of 6 months in Year 1 to complete
a certified inventory all unresolved violent cold case crimes in the jurisdiction's possession which already
have suspect DNA profiles developed. MPD has a backlog of cold cases dating as far back as 1940. To
ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the inventory will be for cold cases dated from 1970 to the current
year, since the use of DNA evidence did not become prevalent in criminal investigations until the 1980's.
It is very unlikely that cold cases dated before 1970 will yield existing DNA profiles. Once the inventory
is completed and approved by BJA, Cold Case Detectives will apply overtime hours towards the
investigation of qualifying cold cases from the inventory for a period of 2 months in Year 1. Overtime
hourly rates are based on base hourly rate plus time and a half per City of Miami policy.
Each Detective will work 192 overtime hours in Year 1.
Inventory: 24 hrs. per month X 6 months= 144 hrs. Investigation: 24 hrs. per month X 2 months= 48
hours. 144 hrs. + 48 hrs: 192 hrs.
1. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $18,955
Base hourly rate = $65.81/ Overtime hourly rate = $98.72
$98.72 x 192 hrs.= $18,995
2. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $16,739
Base hourly rate = $58.12/ Overtime hourly rate = $87.18
$87.18 x 192 hrs.= $16,739
3. Det. N. Amores- $13,104
Base hourly rate = $45.50/ Overtime hourly rate = $68.25
$68.25x 192 hrs.= $13,104
4. Det. A. Scull- $11,428
Base hourly rate = $39.68/ Overtime hourly rate = $59.52
$59.52 x 192 hrs.= $11,428
5. Det. D. Garcia- $10,885
Base hourly rate = $37.79/ Overtime hourly rate = $56.69
$56.69 x 192 hrs.= $10,885
B. Fringe Benefits - $1,033
The City of Miami will utilize a FICA rate of 1.45% for fringe benefits. There is not "cost allocation"
associated with overtime for sworn -officer personnel therefore fringe benefits do not include retirement
health insurance, retirement, worker's compensation or life insurance costs. FICA for sworn officers is
1.45% (only Medicare).
1. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $275
$18,995 x 1.45% = $275
2. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $243
$16,739 x 1.45% = $243
3. Det. N. Amores- $191
$13,104 x 1.45% = $191
4. Det. A. Scull- $166
$11,428 x 1.45% _ $166
5. Det. D. Garcia- $158
$10,885 x 1.45% = $158
C. Travel
D. Equipment
E. Supplies - $484
Office Supplies for Cold Case Detail for the 36-month grant period: folders, pens, note pads, printer paper
and printer toner.
F. Construction
G. Subwards (Subgrants) - $27,261
Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division- Forensic Biology Section (MDPD Lab).
MDPD Lab will assign the following personnel positions to this project: CODIS Administrator, Police
Crime Scene Technician and Criminalist II. MDPD staffworking overtime for this project will be scheduled
and supervised by Criminalist Supervisor for this section. MDPD Lab staff are civilian personnel. MDPD
Lab will assign overtime to personnel to assist MPD's Cold Case Detail with completing the inventory for
a period of 6 months in Year 1. MDPD Lab personnel assigned to this project will prioritize forensic
services for cold cases in this project during the remaining 2 months in Yearl.
Overtime hourly rates are based on the base hourly rate plus time and a half per Miami -Dade County policy.
Fringe benefits are incorporated in the overtime hourly rates stated in this budget. Fringe benefits include
FICA (6.2%), MICA (1.45%), and High -Risk Retirement (32.67%) = TOTAL 40.32%.
Personnel:
1. CODIS Administrator - $15,288
Overtime hourly rate = $101. 95 (includes fringe benefits)
$127.40 x 6 months x 20 hrs. = $15,288
This position will be assigned to work 20 hours a month for up to 6 months in Year 1. They will
assist MPD complete its inventory of unresolved violent cold case crimes which already have
suspect DNA profiles developed. The CODIS Administrator has oversight of all operations of the
CODIS network with the exception of entering profiles into CODIS and processing incoming and
outgoing search requests. CODIS Administrator will check the database to see if there were profiles
entered in CODIS and what the status of those profiles are.
2. Police Crime Scene Technician - $7,895
Overtime hourly rate = $101. 95 (includes fringe benefits)
$101. 95 x 6 months x 20 hrs. = $7,895
This position will be assigned to work 20 hours a month for up to 6 months in Year 1. They will
assist MPD complete its inventory of unresolved violent cold case crimes which already have
suspect DNA profiles developed. The PST will perform laboratory support duties exclusive of
analytical procedures in forensic or casework reference samples. Their duties in this project will
include locating the files, requesting them from Miami -Dade Police evidence warehouse if they are
not in the MDPD Lab or accessible on their network, and reading the reports to see if a profile was
generated.
3. Criminalist II - $4,078
Overtime hourly rate = $101. 95 (includes fringe benefits)
$101. 95 x 2 months x 20 hrs. = $4,078
This position will be assigned to work 20 hours a month for up to 2 months in Year 1. They will
assist MPD in their investigation of selected cold cases. The Criminalist II will work overtime to
prioritize forensic services needed by the Cold Case Detail, including entering eligible DNA
profiles into CODIS, performing searches of the database and interacting with Cold Case
Detectives as needed. The Criminalist II is also qualified to provide expert testimony in the
courtroom.
Year 1— Federal Total: $99,889
Year 1— Non Federal Total: $0
Year 1— Total: $99,889
Year 2
C. Personnel - $161,329
Five sworn -personnel from the Cold Case Detail will apply overtime hours towards the investigation of
qualifying cold cases from the completed inventory. The Cold Case Detail consists of the Homicide Unit
Lieutenant, the Cold Case Detail Sargeant and 3 Detectives. The Lieutenant (Asst. Program Manager) and
Sargeant (Project Coordinator) will take part in investigating qualifying cold cases in addition to their
leadership duties within this project. The Sargeant will be solely responsible for entering cases into ViCAP.
Cold Case Detectives report directly to the Sargeant. Investigative duties include but are not limited to:
creating case files, reviewing all existing reports related to each case; review of sworn statements;
identifying new leads; re -interviewing past witnesses/suspects and interviewing new leads, and identifying
evidence that needs to be submitted to MDPD Lab for analysis or additional analysis using updated
technology.
Year 2 base salary rates include a 2% increase per the annual raise rates. Overtime hourly rates are based
on base hourly rate plus time and a half per City of Miami policy.
Each Detective will work 420 overtime hours over a period of 12 months in Year 2.
Investigation: 35 hrs. per month X 12 months= 420 hours.
6. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $42,290
Base hourly rate = $67.13/ Overtime hourly rate = $100.69
$100.69 x 420 hrs.= $42,290
7. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $40, 014 (allotted an additional 30 hours for ViCAP entries)
Base hourly rate = $59.28/ Overtime hourly rate = $88.92
$88.92 x 450 hrs.= $40, 014
8. Det. N. Amores- $29,241
Base hourly rate = $46.41/ Overtime hourly rate = $69.62
$69.62 x 420 hrs.= $29,241
9. Det. A. Scull- $25,499
Base hourly rate = $40.47/ Overtime hourly rate = $60.71
$60.71 x 420 hrs.= $25,499
10. Det. D. Garcia- $24,285
Base hourly rate = $38.55/ Overtime hourly rate = $57.82
$57.82 x 192 hrs.= $24,285
D. Fringe Benefits - $2,342
The City of Miami will utilize a FICA rate of 1.45% for fringe benefits. There is not "cost allocation"
associated with overtime for sworn -officer personnel therefore fringe benefits do not include retirement
health insurance, retirement, worker's compensation or life insurance costs. FICA for sworn officers is
1.45% (only Medicare).
6. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $614
$42,290 x 1.45% = $614
7. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $581
$40, 014 x 1.45% = $581
8. Det. N. Amores- $424
$29,241 x 1.45% = $424
9. Det. A. Scull- $370
$25,499 x 1.45% = $370
10. Det. D. Garcia- $353
$24,285 x 1.45% = $353
C. Travel- $9,055
Funds will be used for travel expenses solely related to investigative purposes and evidence collection
within the scope ofthis project. Per City of Miami Police Department policy, Detectives must travel in pairs
for trips related to investigations. Each Detective is allowed their own hotel room. Locations are to be
determined and contingent on the needs of the cases requiring travel. Hotels and meals are based on General
Services Administration standard rates for all locations. All other expenses are in accordance with City of
Miami travel policy. Estimates are based on the assumption of 5 trips for 2 Detectives in Year 2.
5 trips per year/2 Detectives. Each trip is 3 days and 2 nights.
Lodging: each trip is 3 days/2 nights (1 hotel room per detective)= 4 nights per trip
$107 per night x 4 nights x 2 detectives/rooms x 5 trips= $4,280
Meals & Incidentals: 1 day @ $59 per day
$59 per day x 1 day x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $590
Meals (First & Last Day of travel): 2 days @ 44.25 per day
$44.25 per day x 2 day x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $885
Transportation: Roundtrip airfare @ $275 per ticket
$275 per ticket x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $2,750
Local Travel: Car rental @ $55 per day
$55 per day x 2 days x 5 trips = $550
D. Equipment
E. Supplies
F. Construction
G. Subwards (Subgrants) - $25,691
Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division- Forensic Biology Section (MDPD Lab).
MDPD Lab will assign the following personnel position to this project: Criminalist II. MDPD staff working
overtime for this project will be scheduled and supervised by Criminalist Supervisor for this section. MDPD
Lab staff are civilian personnel. MDPD Lab personnel assigned to this project will prioritize forensic
services for cold cases in this project for 12 months in Year 2.
Overtime hourly rates are based on the base hourly rate plus time and a half per Miami -Dade County policy.
Fringe benefits are incorporated in the overtime hourly rates stated in this budget. Fringe benefits include
FICA (6.2%), MICA (1.45%), and High -Risk Retirement (32.67%) = TOTAL 40.32%.
Personnel:
Criminalist lI - $25,691
Overtime hourly rate = $101. 95 (includes fringe benefits)
$101. 95 x 12 months x 21 hrs. = $25,691
This position will be assigned to work 20 hours a month for up to 12 months in Year 2. They will
assist the Miami Police Cold Case Detail in their investigation of selected cold cases. The
Criminalist II will work overtime to prioritize forensic services needed by the Cold Case Detail,
including entering eligible DNA profiles into CODIS, performing searches of the database and
interacting with Cold Case Detectives as needed. The Criminalist II is also qualified to provide
expert testimony in the courtroom.
Year 2 — Federal Total: $198,417
Year 2 — Non Federal Total: $0
Year 2 — Total: $197,194
Year 3
A. Personnel - $164,558
Five sworn -personnel from the Cold Case Detail will apply overtime hours towards the investigation of
qualifying cold cases from the completed inventory. The Cold Case Detail consists of the Homicide Unit
Lieutenant, the Cold Case Detail Sargeant and 3 Detectives. The Lieutenant (Asst. Program Mgr.) and
Sargeant (Project Coordinator) will take part in investigating qualifying cold cases in addition to their
leadership duties within this project. The Sargeant will be solely responsible for entering cases into ViCAP.
Cold Case Detectives report directly to the Sargeant. Investigative duties include but are not limited to:
creating case files, reviewing all existing reports related to each case; review of sworn statements;
identifying new leads; re -interviewing past witnesses/suspects and interviewing new leads, and identifying
evidence that needs to be submitted to MDPD Lab for analysis or additional analysis using updated
technology.
Year 3 base salary rates include a 2% increase per the annual raise rates. Overtime hourly rates are based
on base hourly rate plus time and a half per City of Miami policy.
Each Detective will work 420 overtime hours over a period of 12 months in Year 3.
Investigation: 35 hrs. per month X 12 months= 420 hours.
11. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $43,139
Base hourly rate = $67.13/ Overtime hourly rate = $102.71
$102.71 x 420 hrs.= $43,139
12. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $40, 815 (allotted an additional 30 hours for ViCAP entries)
Base hourly rate = $60.47/ Overtime hourly rate = $90.70
$90.70 x 450 hrs.= $40, 815
13. Det. N. Amores- $29,825
Base hourly rate = $47.34/ Overtime hourly rate = $71.01
$71.01 x 420 hrs.= $29,825
14. Det. A. Scull- $26,007
Base hourly rate = $41.28/ Overtime hourly rate = $61.92
$61.92 x 420 hrs.= $26,007
15. Det. D. Garcia- $24,772
Base hourly rate = $39.32/ Overtime hourly rate = $58.98
$58.98 x 192 hrs.= $24,772
B. Fringe Benefits - $2,389
The City of Miami will utilize a FICA rate of 1.45% for fringe benefits. There is not "cost allocation"
associated with overtime for sworn -officer personnel therefore fringe benefits do not include retirement
health insurance, retirement, worker's compensation or life insurance costs. FICA for sworn officers is
1.45% (only Medicare).
11. Lt. W. Gonzalez- $626
$43,139 x 1.45% = $626
12. Sgt. N. Trifonov- $592
$40, 815 x 1.45% = $592
13. Det. N. Amores- $433
$29,825 x 1.45% = $433
14. Det. A. Scull- $378
$26,007 x 1.45% = $378
15. Det. D. Garcia- $360
$24,772 x 1.45% = $36
C. Travel - $9,055
Funds will be used for travel expenses solely related to investigative purposes and evidence collection
within the scope of this project. Per City of Miami Police Department policy, Detectives must travel in pairs
for trips related to investigations. Each Detective is allowed their own hotel room. Locations are to be
determined and contingent on the needs of the cases requiring travel. Hotels and meals are based on General
Services Administration standard rates for all locations. All other expenses are in accordance with City of
Miami travel policy. Estimates are based on the assumption of 5 trips for 2 Detectives in Year 3.
5 trips per year/2 Detectives. Each trip is 3 days and 2 nights.
Lodging: each trip is 3 days/2 nights (1 hotel room per detective)= 4 nights per trip
$107 per night x 4 nights x 2 detectives/rooms x 5 trips= $4,280
Meals & Incidentals: 1 day @ $59 per day
$59 per day x 1 day x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $590
Meals (First & Last Day of travel): 2 days @ 44.25 per day
$44.25 per day x 2 day x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $885
Transportation: Roundtrip airfare @ $275 per ticket
$275 per ticket x 2 Detectives x 5 trips = $2,750
Local Travel: Car rental @ $55 per day
$55 per day x 2 days x 5 trips = $550
D. Equipment
E. Supplies
F. Construction
G. Subwards (Subgrants) - $25,691
Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division- Forensic Biology Section (MDPD Lab).
MDPD Lab will assign the following personnel position to this project: Criminalist II. MDPD staff working
overtime for this project will be scheduled and supervised by Criminalist Supervisor for this section. MDPD
Lab staff are civilian personnel. MDPD Lab personnel assigned to this project will prioritize forensic
services for cold cases in this project for 12 months in Year 3.
Overtime hourly rates are based on the base hourly rate plus time and a half per Miami -Dade County policy.
Fringe benefits are incorporated in the overtime hourly rates stated in this budget. Fringe benefits include
FICA (6.2%), MICA (1.45%), and High -Risk Retirement (32.67%) = TOTAL 40.32%.
Personnel:
Criminalist II - $25,691
Overtime hourly rate = $101. 95 (includes fringe benefits)
$101. 95 x 12 months x 20 hrs. = $25,691
This position will be assigned to work 20 hours a month for up to 12 months in Year 3. They will
assist the Miami Police Cold Case Detail in their investigation of selected cold cases. The
Criminalist II will work overtime to prioritize forensic services needed by the Cold Case Detail,
including entering eligible DNA profiles into CODIS, performing searches of the database and
interacting with Cold Case Detectives as needed. The Criminalist II is also qualified to provide
expert testimony in the courtroom.
Year 3 — Federal Total: $201,693
Year 3 — Non Federal Total: $0
Year 3 — Total: $201,693
PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
a. DESCRIPTION OF ISSUE
The City of Miami Police Department (MPD) oversees the safety of 449,514 residents within
Miami's 36-square miles, the largest municipality in Miami -Dade County. In 2023, Miami reported
various Part I Crimes, including 31 homicides, 39 forcible offenses, 536 robberies, 1,748
aggravated assaults, 1,327 burglaries, 11,385 larcenies, and 2,326 auto thefts. Since 2019,
homicides and other violent crimes have decreased while the clearance rate rose from 44.3% in
2020 to 96.8% in 2023, surpassing the FBI's 2019 national clearance rate of 61.4% for murder
offenses. The decrease in case volume presents an opportunity for MPD to focus their energy on
cold cases, identifying these DNA profiles, leads, and investigations leading to case closures and
prosecution.
The "National Best Practices for Implementing and Sustaining A Cold Case Investigation Unit"
report highlights the need for dedicated, professionally managed cold case units within law
enforcement agencies. In response, MPD established a specialized Cold Case Detail comprised of
senior Homicide Unit Detectives. This team has direct access to DNA databases and advanced
forensic tools, supported by the City of Miami Police Crime Scene Investigative Unit and the
Miami -Dade County Police Department Forensic Services Division (MDPD Lab). However, MPD
faces challenges in solving cold cases:
1. Complexity and Time Consumption: Cold cases are inherently complex and require
extensive time and labor to investigate. This complexity often leads to increased caseloads
for Detectives, draining MPD's resources and perpetuating the volume of unresolved cases.
2. Cooperation Issues: There is often a lack of early cooperation between prosecutors and
detectives, which can hinder the progression of investigations and the successful
prosecution of cases.
1
PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
3. Forensic Processing Delays: MDPD Lab, which serves all 34 municipalities in Miami -
Dade County experiences delays due to high demand, with forensic evidence analysis
taking between 2 to 5 months on average. This delay can significantly stall case progress.
As of December 2018, the National DNA Index System held over 16.6 million profiles from
convicted offenders and arrestees, according to data from the FBI. Advances in DNA technology,
such as the capability to analyze trace amounts of DNA, significantly enhance the analysis of
degraded biological evidence. This progress can aid the Cold Case Detail in resolving cases and
providing robust evidence for successful prosecutions. Per a 2018 report by the Begun Center for
Violence Prevention Research and Education, 71% percent of those who commit violent criminal
offenses are rearrested within five years of release from prison. Researchers have also found that
serial rapists are more prevalent than previously thought. Thus, solving cold cases can prevent
future victimization by taking persons who repeatedly commit offenses off the street.
MPD currently has a backlog of 1,932 open cold cases dating from 1949-2024. Therefore, City
of Miam Police Department (MPD) is requesting $500,000 in "BJA FY24 Prosecuting Cold Cases
Using DNA" funding for the "M.P.D. Cold Case Investigations" project. MPD will collaborate
with the Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office (SAO) and Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic
Services Division Section (MDPD Lab). The project will support overtime to Detectives in the
Cold Case Detail and MDPD Lab forensic personnel to a) complete a certified inventory of
unresolved cold case crimes under MPD's jurisdiction which already have suspect DNA profiles
developed, b) investigate qualifying violent crime cold cases from the inventory and c) any
required travel to pursue new leads. The Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office has stated their
engagement for the project via a Letter of Commitment.
2
PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
The project will be managed by the Crime Investigations Section (CIS) which houses the Cold
Case Detail operating within the Homicide Unit. The "M.PD. Cold Case Investigations" project
is expected to significantly impact the closure and prosecution of violent crime cold cases in the
following ways:
• Enhanced Resource Allocation: The project provides funding for overtime, enabling
Detectives and forensic personnel to efficiently manage and investigate cold cases with
existing DNA profiles.
• Technological and Forensic Advancement: The project supports the use of advanced
forensic technologies and modern investigative methods to re-examine evidence,
potentially unlocking new leads in stagnant cases.
• Increased Prosecutorial Engagement: Through crucial collaboration with the Miami -
Dade State Attorney's Office, the project prioritizes prosecutorial involvement from the
start, focusing on cases with high potential for successful convictions.
b. PROJECT DESGIN AND IMPLEMENTATION
The City of Miami Police Department (MPD) has an opportunity to leverage its successful
homicide closure rate and increase investigative efforts on resolving violent crime cold cases to
bring long overdue justice to victims and their loved ones. To accomplish this, Miami Police will
implement the "M.PD. Cold Case Investigations" project in partnership with the Miami -Dade
State Attorney's Office (SAO) and the Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division
Section (MDPD Lab). The project will be managed by Crime Investigations Division (CID),
which oversees the Cold Case Detail operating within the Homicide Unit. The Homicide Unit is
operated by 7 Supervisors (1 Lieutenant, 6 Sergeants) and 22 Detectives. Cold Case Homicide
3
PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Detectives are experienced investigators from the Homicide Unit assigned to the Cold Case Detail
working under the direct supervision of the Cold Case Homicide Sergeant. The detail working on
this project will include three (3) Detectives, one (1) Homicide Unit Commander (Lieutenant) and
one (1) Cold Case Homicide Sergeant. The CIS Major will be the Program Manager for this
project with the Homicide Unit Commander as the Asst. Program Manager and the Cold Case
Homicide Sergeant serving as Project Coordinator.
The first 4 months of Year 1 will be allocated to executing the award contract with the
Department of Justice and completing any subaward agreements and/or MOUs as warranted
between City of Miami Police Department (MPD), the Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office
(SAO) and the Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division Section (MDPD Lab).
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the "M.PD. Cold Case Investigations" is to INCREASE successful
prosecutions of violent cold cases and REDUCE unresolved cases where a suspect is identified
through DNA. This initiative focuses on identifying the most solvable violent cold cases AND
developing collaboration to enhance investigative, forensic and prosecutorial processes. The
project's goals, objectives, and deliverables create a strategic plan that optimize outcomes in these
areas.
Goal 1: Solve and Prosecute Violent Crime Cold Cases.
Objective la: Strengthen Collaborations.
Deliverable: MOU between MPD, SAO and Miami -Dade Lab outlining duties and responsibilities for
the project.
Deliverable: Quarterly coordinated meetings between MPD, SAO and Miami -Dade Forensic Lab
will discuss updates on forensic advancements and case progress.
Objective lb: Assessment and prioritization of violent cold cases.
Deliverable: Completed inventory of MPD's backlog of violent cold cases with existing suspect DNA
profiles, dating from 1970-2024.
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE
M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Deliverable: Cold Case List of qualifying cold cases from the completed inventory that will be
selected for investigation.
Deliverable: Cold Case Review quarterly reports detailing the status and findings from the case
reviews, including challenges faced and the impact of any new forensic evidence uncovered.
Objective lc: Evidence Processing and Analysis.
Deliverable: DNA Analysis Outcomes Annual Report summarizing DNA processing results.
Goal 2: Enhance Justice Delivery.
Objective 2a: Prosecutorial Preparation.
Deliverable: Prosecutorial Reports annually from SAO prepared for cases moving to trial, outlining
evidence, witness testimony, and forensic findings.
Goal 3: Improve Investigative Processes.
Objective 3a: Enhance Community Engagement and Support.
Deliverable: Annual review of community engagement activities. Adjustments made to the
investigations based on community input.
Objective 3b: Codify Success and Address Challenges.
Deliverable: Final Report detailing successes, challenges and lessons learned over the 36- month
project period.
INVENTORY AND CASE SELECTION
MPD currently manages a backlog of 1,932 open cold cases from 1949 to 2024. In Year 1, the
Cold Case Detail and MDPD Lab will collaborate over six months to inventory violent cold cases
from 1970 to 2024, focusing on those with potential DNA evidence. Cases before 1970 are less
likely to contain DNA due to the late introduction of forensic DNA analysis in the 1980s. The team
will prioritize cases with likely offender -victim contact, which might have left DNA traces.
The Cold Case Detail will review records and select cases for DNA profile verification at the
MDPD Lab, supported by a CODIS Administrator, Police Crime Scene Technician and Imaging
Records Technician for forensic analysis, evidence handling and digitization of case records (as
needed). Cases confirmed by the MDPD Lab to have a developed DNA profile will be included in
the final selection.
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Upon completing the inventory, approximately 200 cases will be reviewed and triaged. A Cold
Case Selection List will prioritize cases for investigation based on the availability of physical
evidence, potential for DNA analysis, and quality of witness statements, focusing on factors that
enhance prosecutorial prospects, such as matching witness accounts to CODIS hits. This selection
aims to boost prosecution rates and case resolutions. Currently, the Cold Case Detail is actively
working on 21 cases, with an additional 6 under review for potential DNA profiles. The following
are specific examples of qualifying active cases:
• Homicide of Andrew Perez (1/4/18, Allapattah, Miami): Mr. Perez was fatally shot, his
stolen vehicle was later found burned, and DNA from the arson scene identified a
suspect.
• Homicide of Tilkharri Harris (2/5/21): Mr. Harris was fatally shot, and casings led to a
vehicle processed for latent prints and a firearm, both linking a suspect to the crime scene
via NIBIN and DNA analysis.
INVESTIGATION PROCESS OVERVIEW
The "M.RD. Cold Case Investigations" project will dedicate 26 months to investigating and
prosecuting selected cold cases —two months in Year 1 and 12 months in Years 2 and 3. The
Cold Case Detail operates under Standard Operating Procedures, typically assigning six cases per
detective. The team, including detectives, MDPD Lab staff, and prosecutors, will collaborate
intensively to resolve violent crime cold cases, utilizing DNA and non -DNA evidence, witness and
suspect testimonies and discovered linkages to other cases. To ensure timely investigations and
project completion within the grant period, overtime will be scheduled for Cold Case Detectives
and a Criminalist II from the MDPD Lab.
Reopened cases will utilize advanced investigative techniques and contemporary DNA and
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
forensic technologies previously unavailable. These methods include Touch DNA Analysis,
Familial DNA Searching, Forensic Anthropology, Digital Forensics, Forensic Genealogy, and
Toxicology and Drug Analysis. MPD's in-house NIBIN center, funded by the DOJ, will be used
to conduct Firearm and Tool Mark Examination. Research funded by the National institute of
Justice indicates that DNA evidence significantly enhances case progression and conviction rates,
with nearly 75% of cases matching a suspect's DNA profile leading to a guilty plea or trial, versus
less than a third of cases lacking lab reports. Enhanced coordination between the Cold Case Detail,
MDPD Lab, and the Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office will bolster prosecutorial evidence,
improving conviction chances.
"M.RD. Cold Case Investigations" will implement a streamlined process that ensures each
cold case is handled with meticulous attention to detail, leveraging the latest forensic technologies
and prosecutor engagement to enhance the likelihood of resolving these challenging cases.
1. Investigation Process:
• Interview Coordination: Detectives identify individuals for new or repeat interviews,
conduct full work -ups to locate them, and review all relevant reports and statements.
Coordination with original investigators and consultations with the State Attorney's Office
(SAO).
• ViCAP and NamUs Entries: Eligible cases are entered into ViCAP and NamUs by the
Cold Case Homicide Sergeant to generate new leads.
2. Evidence Analysis:
• Submission of New and Existing Evidence: Evidence requiring new or further analysis,
including innovative methods like Recover, M-Vac, and Vacuum Metal Deposition, is
submitted for analysis. DNA evidence (blood, semen, etc.) will be submitted to (MDPD
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Lab) for a forensic work up —qualifying DNA profiles that are developed will be entered
into CODIS. If a DNA profile of an unknown offender does not match any known suspects
in the database after some time, it will be considered for further analysis at the Florida
Department of Law Enforcement lab, potentially including Familial DNA or Genetic
Genealogy testing. Non -DNA evidence (fingerprints, ballistics), and digital evidence (data
from electronic devices, social media accounts, emails, etc.) will be submitted to the City
of Miami Police Department Computer Forensics Detail for extraction and review.
• Database Searches and Expert Testimony: A Criminalist II, under the Criminalist
Supervisor's guidance, prioritizes forensic services, performs CODIS entries, conducts
database searches, and provides courtroom testimony (if needed).
3. Survivors and Victims' Assistance:
• Annual Meeting: The "Homicide Survivors Coming Together" event allows MPD to
maintain contact with victims and their families, fostering community trust and
encouraging further cooperation in the investigative process. This community engagement
activity is spearheaded by the Victims Advocate Unit, which operates under the Criminal
Investigations Division. The Unit offers comprehensive services and refers victims to
additional resources and community support.
4. Cold Case Detail Duties:
• Case Assessment: Detectives are responsible for thorough reviews, including assessing all
case documents, evidence inventory, and witness and suspect information, and data entry
in the Case Tracking System.
• Recontact and Follow -Up: Detectives recontact witnesses and other investigators who
worked on the original case for new leads, and keep supervisors informed about case
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
progress and linkages.
• Evidence Handling and Tracking: Detectives, with aide of the Crime Scene Supervisors,
submit evidence for DNA testing to laboratory. Repacking of evidence, contamination
issues are addressed. Detectives track evidence submitted to the lab and obtains outcome
of laboratory test.
• Cold Case Review: Quarterly reports developed by the Asst. Program Manager and Cold
Case Homicide Sergeant detailing the status and findings from the Detectives' case work.
To be shared at Quarterly coordinated meetings between MPD, SAO and Miami -Dade
Forensic Lab.
• Cross -Collaboration: As needed, the Cold Case Detail will engage Miami Dade Police
Department, Homeland Security Investigations (Department of Homeland Security), and
local police agencies within the jurisdiction of where witnesses, surviving victims, and
suspects reside or are located. This may require Cold Case Detectives to travel to other
jurisdictions for further evidence gathering and pursuing new leads.
• Community Engagement: The Detail conducts an annual review of community
engagement activities, making adjustments to investigations based on community input.
• Project Assessment: The Asst. Program Manager and Cold Case Homicide Sergeant will
work with partners to create a Final Report detailing successes, challenges and lessons
learned over the 36- month project period.
5. MDPD Lab Duties:
• Evidence Processing: The Criminalist II, with oversight from the Criminalist Supervisor,
ensures the most relevant and promising evidence is processed efficiently. This includes
discussions about the nature of the evidence and its potential yield before acceptance.
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
• Urgency and Communication: In urgent cases, theAsst. Program Manager may expedite
evidence processing by directly contacting the Criminalist Supervisor.
• Reporting and Analysis: DNA Analysis Outcomes Annual Report will be developed to
summarize DNA processing results.
6. Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office Duties:
• Involvement and Communication: SAO will have an open line of communication with
the Cold Case Detail to evaluate witness accounts and to discuss how SAO is utilizing lab
results from forensic evidence analysis by MDPD Lab.
• Prosecutorial Preparation: Development of annual Prosecutorial Reports.
The "M.PD. Cold Case Investigations" project will utilize strategies to navigate the
challenges inherent in reopening cases, focusing on advancing forensic technologies, boosting
inter -agency cooperation, and refining investigative techniques. These approaches enhance the
efficacy and success of solving cold cases and securing justice.
Pitfall: Degradation of Evidence Over Time
Strategy: Prompt identification and preservation of key evidence are critical due to the
degradation of forensic materials over time. Engaging with potential witnesses and their families
early is vital to preserve their memories and gather crucial information.
Pitfall: Legal and Administrative Hurdles
Strategy: Overcoming legal challenges, such as statutes of limitations, requires close collaboration
with prosecutors who understand the intricacies of cold cases. This partnership enables the
development of innovative legal strategies to strengthen cases with compromised evidence.
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Pitfall: Shifting Investigative Focus
Strategy: Balancing resources between cold cases and active investigations involves constant
reassessment of old evidence and theories using new forensic methods. Early and thorough
documentation of evidence ensures that cases remain prosecutable over time.
c. CAPABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES
The City of Miami will act as the fiscal agent for the project, overseeing a $213,248,000
operating budget and managing over 4,000 employees across 34 departments. In FY 2024, the
Miami Police Department (MPD) Administrative Division handled the financial and
administrative aspects of 44 grant -funded programs totaling $18,141,411. This division will
manage project grant expenditures, drawdowns, and subawards, with oversight from the City's
Management and Budget to ensure accountability. MPD has a proven track record in managing
Department of Justice -funded projects, including the successful implementation of the FY 2020
Crime Gun Intelligence Center Initiative. This collaborative project established an in-house NIBIN
system and a CGIC Integration Team which includes the Miami -Dade County State Attorney's
Office (SAO) and Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division (MDPD Lab).
MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE & ORGANIZATION
The "M.RD. Cold Case Investigations" will be managed by the Criminal Investigations
Section (CIS), which oversees both the Homicide Unit and its Cold Case Detail. The CIS Major
will act as the Program Manager, supervising the Assistant Program Manager (Homicide Unit
Commander) and the Project Coordinator (Homicide/Cold Case Sergeant). These roles will be
responsible for daily operations and coordinating with partners. Regular quarterly meetings and
reporting deliverables will facilitate ongoing collaboration with the Miami -Dade County State
Attorney's Office (SAO) and Miami -Dade Police Department Forensic Services Division (MDPD
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M.P.D. COLD CASE INVEST!
Lab). Chief State Attorney Kathleen Hoague will represent the SAO, ensuring prosecutorial
involvement from start to finish. The following is a description of the capabilities of key staff and
partners, including their tasks for this project's successful implementation:
Bianca Joseph, Major, Criminal Investigations Section, MPD- Major Joseph has over 18
years of policing experience at MPD, taking on a variety of supervisory positions throughout her
tenure. As Major of the Criminal Investigation Section (CIS), she manages personnel, fiscal and
material resources consisting of 1,500 personnel and an annual budget of over 70 million dollars.
Additionally, Major Joseph oversees the day-to-day operations of the units within the Section, i.e.,
Homicide, General Investigations, Robbery, Special Victims, Violent Crimes and Victims
Advocate. In her position, she represents the Assistant Chief of Police as needed. As Program
Manager (PM), she will receive periodic reports from the Asst. Program Manager (Homicide Unit
Commander) and Project Coordinator (Homicide/Cold Case Sergeant). Major Joseph will
represent the Office of the Chief at all Quarterly Meetings; coordinate the development of any
MOUs and/or subawards and award contract execution with the Department of Justice; and direct
the Victims Advocate Unit for victim outreach activities. Any issues/concerns from collaborative
partners that are beyond the purview of the Asst. Program Manager, will be escalated to Major
Joseph.
William Gonzalez, Homicide Unit Commander, Homicide Unit, MPD- Lieutenant
Gonzalez has served at MPD since 2005. As the Homicide Unit Commander and commanding
officer of the Miami Police Homicide Task Force, he has developed expertise in managing
specialized investigative initiatives and collaborating with prosecutors to ensure offender
identification and successful prosecution. As Assistant Program Manager, Lt. Gonzalez is the
primary point of contact for the partnership, coordinates Quarterly Meetings with the State
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
Attorney's Office and MDPD Lab and ensures that project goals and deliverables are met. He also
manages grant data, financial reporting, and other administrative tasks to enhance project
efficiency. Lt. Gonzalez will assist the Cold Case Detail in investigating eligible cold cases and
oversees the Homicide/Cold Case Sergeant (Project Coordinator).
Nikolai A. Trifonov, Sergeant, Homicide Unit/Cold Case Detail, MPD- Sgt. Trifonov joined
MPD in 2013. He leads the Cold Case Detail, supervising three detectives. As Project
Coordinator, he will attend Quarterly Meetings and manage the Detail's operations. His
responsibilities include assigning cases based on established criteria, completing investigative
reports, reviewing case files, and ensuring uniform data entry into the Case Tracking System by
Detectives. Sgt. Trifonov also supports the Asst. Program Manager by compiling program metrics
and actively participates in investigations, helping detectives overcome any challenges they
encounter.
Cold Case Detail- Detective Nestor Amores, Detective Dayan Garcia, and Detective
Andrew Scull are Homicide Detectives who are assigned to the Cold Case Detail. Combined, they
have 31 years of police and investigation experience. In their role, they will work with the
partnership to complete the inventory and investigate assigned qualifying cold cases. Full
investigative work will be completed with the intention of presenting strong evidence that will
assist the SAO in prosecuting cases. They will attend weekly Cold Case Detail meetings to discuss
strategies and provide updates on cases under active investigation to the Project Coordinator.
Katherine Hoague, Chief Assistant Attorney, Miami -Dade SAO- Ms. Hoague has been a
prosecutor within Miami -Dade SAO for 44 years and has been the Chief Assistant State Attorney
since 1993. Leading the Felony Division and Major Crimes Unit, the constant theme in her tenure
has been homicide case prosecutions. In her experience, she has close working relationships with
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE M.P.D. COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
police departments in Miami -Dade County including MPD and has worked closely with homicide
detectives to investigate a case both before and after the defendant was charged. As the point
person for the State Attorney's Office, Chief Assistant Hoague will represent the office at
Quarterly Meetings, coordinate the work of prosecutor's assigned cases within this project and
develop annual Prosecutorial Reports.
Olga Paredes, Criminalist Supervisor, MDPD Lab- Ms. Paredes first began at Miami -Dade
Police Department Forensic Services Division (MDPD Lab) in 2010 as a Criminalist I. She
graduated with a B.S. in Biology and has various certifications, trainings and memberships from
accredited professional forensic organizations. Ms. Paredes is currently the Criminalist Supervisor
for the Forensic Biology Section, supervising six DNA Criminalists and one Police Crime Scene
Technician. In her role, she will schedule and oversee the work of CODIS Administrator,
Criminalist II, Police Crime Scene Technician and Imaging Records Technician personnel who
will work overtime in order to prioritize the forensic analysis of cold cases in this project. She is
the primary point of contact at MDPD Lab for the partnership and will be present at all Quarterly
Meetings and develop annual DNA Analysis Outcomes Reports. She will also manage the cold
case load for overtime lab personnel and meet with the Cold Case Detail to determine what
evidence should be tested.
d. PERFORMANCE MEASURES DATA COLLECTION PLAN
Case management for all qualifying cold cases with a DNA profile will be conducted through
the use of the Case Tracking System which will allow for data entry and data linkage as well as
the ability to screen for specific information. Only cold cases being reviewed will be entered into
this program. The Case Tracking System template will contain screens for the following
information:
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PROPOSAL NARRATIVE''- M.P.D.; COLD CASE INVESTIGATIONS
a. Date/Time of crime
b. Address of incident
c. Original investigator
d. Cold case investigator
e. Cross reference to other cases
f. Victim's name, date of birth, sex, race, country of origin
g. Witness information
h. Suspect information
i. Evidence inventory
j. Description of evidence
k. Description of evidence submitted for DNA analysis; date submitted
I. Chain of custody
m. Result of DNA analysis and date
n. Date submitted into DNA data bases and type of databases.
o. Results of DNA database search. MDPD Lab will provide a
report documenting submissions and test results.
p. Case outcome — closed without prosecution (suspect may be deceased, victim may
not want to pursue charges, etc. )submitted for prosecution, and successfully
prosecuted.
Data for required performance measures for "M.P.D. Cold Case Investigations" will come
from Miami Police Department program records. Data collection will be managed by the Asst.
Program Manager (Homicide Unit Commander). Data will be regularly monitored via meetings
with agency personnel. Measures of implementation progress will be collected and maintained.
Ideas, problems encountered, and identification of solutions to impediments will be regularly
assessed, including at partnership Quarterly Meetings.
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