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SHERIFF’S OFFICE - Sheriff Dave Kain
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Requested Action(s)
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a) AGREEMENT - Request approval and authorization for the Sheriff and Chair to sign the Agreement with Ascertain Forensics at Redwood Toxicology Laboratory, Inc. for the purpose of providing forensic science technology laboratory services for the rates set forth in Exhibit “B” with maximum compensation not to exceed $25,000, effective date of signing and shall terminate 12/31/2025
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Financial Impact:
There is no financial impact on the General Fund. The funding source for the agreement has been budgeted for FY 2024/25 in the Coroners Professional/Special Services account, 2072-53230.
Background Information:
Ascertain Forensics is an accredited toxicology laboratory with the American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT). The National Association of Medical Examiners highly recommends that Coroners and medical examiners utilize accredited laboratorys for postmortem toxicology. Ascertain Forensics has established itself as a top-tier forensics toxicology choice providing critical toxicology results for:
a. Coroners
b. Medical Examiners
c. Criminal Justice Agencies
d. Sheriff & Police Departments
e. Crime Labs
f. District Attorneys
Tehama County’s previous toxicology laboratory was not accredited, and the Sheriff’s Department aims to transition to utilizing accredited sources.