BPS DNA Forensic Services

The Bermuda Police Service (hereafter known as “BPS”) seeks proposals from an ISO-17025, or equivalent, accredited laboratory for specialized Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) analysis, testing, comparing services, and database management.  The BPS must partner with an independent and efficient forensic laboratory with the necessary technical, financial, and human resources. 

A well-established forensic infrastructure is crucial to a successful justice system in Bermuda.  The quality and accuracy of forensic investigations and examinations have an extensive impact on the quality of justice and the overall perception of the justice system by the litigants and other users.  Services should include DNA analysis of database (arrestee) samples, DNA analysis of evidence standards, evidence samples, DNA analysis of cuttings from biological evidence, pre-DNA screening, and subsequent DNA analysis, if needed, of original items of evidence and serology.  

The successful proponent must have the ability to receive, process, and dispatch couriered shipments of exhibits efficiently.   Laboratory personnel must be available for court testimony and consultation with the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for all cases worked on.   All rates relating to expert witness testimony, whether written interrogatories or telephone dispositions, must be attached as an appendix.

The BPS currently owns a Criminal DNA database. Data for a Bermuda DNA Population Database exists, but it has not been vetted and published. The current contract holder maintains database Management and Technical Support. The DNA database, as well as the backups, are maintained by the BPS.

Any information collected or used by or on behalf of the Government of Bermuda (“Government”) under this solicitation document is subject to the Public Access to Information Act 2010 (“Act”).  The information belongs to a class of information that might be made available to the general public under the Act.  The person who gives information to the Government in response to this solicitation document consents to the collection and use of the information and waives any right to challenge any decision made by the Government to disclose the information.  Any questions regarding the collection, use, or disclosure of the information should be directed to the public authority that issued this solicitation document.

The anticipated duration of this contract will be two (2) years with the option to renew for one (1) year. 

Contact Information

Acting Detective Sergeant Jewel Alex Hayward, Forensic Support Unit, email jhayward@bps.bm

Language of Submissions

Unless otherwise indicated, all submissions shall be in English only.

Important Dates

All times listed are in Atlantic Standard Time (AST).

Location of Submission

Responses to this solicitation shall be submitted to the following location:

Bermuda Police Services

Southside Police Station

Attention Acting Detective Sergeant Jewel Alex Hayward

#2 Stocks Point Road

St. David's DD03

Site Visit / Pre-Bid Meeting Details

N/A