Provides information on USPS's efforts to implement Delivery Point Sequencing (DPS), which is the automated rather than manual sorting of letters in the exact order carriers deliver them. Manual sorting of letters by carriers is one of the USPS's most costly letter distribution operations. This report (1) determines the Service's goals for DPS implementation, its projected letter carrier workhour savings, and the extent to which the Service has achieved these, and (2) identifies any remaining issues that may affect the Service's ability to achieve its 1998 DPS goals, including any actions that the Service has taken to address these issues.

Scores of talented and dedicated people serve the forensic science community, performing vitally important work. However, they are often constrained by lack of adequate resources, sound policies, and national support. It is clear that change and advancements, both systematic and scientific, are needed in a number of forensic science disciplines to ensure the reliability of work, establish enforceable standards, and promote best practices with consistent application. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward provides a detailed plan for addressing these needs and suggests the creation of a new government entity, the National Institute of Forensic Science, to establish and enforce standards within the forensic science community. The benefits of improving and regulating the forensic science disciplines are clear: assisting law enforcement officials, enhancing homeland security, and reducing the risk of wrongful conviction and exoneration. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States gives a full account of what is needed to advance the forensic science disciplines, including upgrading of systems and organizational structures, better training, widespread adoption of uniform and enforceable best practices, and mandatory certification and accreditation programs. While this book provides an essential call-to-action for congress and policy makers, it also serves as a vital tool for law enforcement agencies, criminal prosecutors and attorneys, and forensic science educators.