The San Francisco Police Department is optimistic a $424,107 grant will help them solve cold cases by paying for three part-time officers to work on the cases with a focus on DNA testing.

According to the most recent tally, the department has 1,151 unsolved homicides during the last 25 years, and about 900 reported but unsolved rapes over the past 10 years. There is a ten-year statue of limitations for rape cases.

“The Police Department is extremely interested in obtaining resources to focus on the large number of cold cases in order to apprehend perpetrators before they have a chance to re-offend and to bring closure to victims’ families,” Captain David Lazar said.

“Many of the cold cases will be examined and 100 selected for further review,” he said.

The Board of Supervisors Public Safety Committee approved of spending the grant Monday. It will require approval by the full board.

jsabatini@sfexaminer.com