Pursuant to Virginia Code § 19.2-11.8, a law-enforcement agency that receives a physical evidence recovery kit (PERK) collected from a victim who has reported the offense shall submit the physical evidence recovery kit to DFS for analysis within 60 days of receipt, except under the following circumstances: (i) it is an anonymous PERK; (ii) the PERK was collected by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner as part of a routine death investigation, and the medical examiner and the law-enforcement agency agree that analysis is not warranted; (iii) the PERK is connected to an offense that occurred outside of the Commonwealth; (iv) the PERK was determined by the law-enforcement agency not to be connected to a criminal offense; or (v) another law-enforcement agency has taken over responsibility for the investigation related to the physical evidence recovery kit.
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Can DNA testing be conducted without reference samples?
Yes, DNA testing can be conducted without reference samples. However, if reference samples are available they are encouraged to be submitted to the laboratory.
Why are statistics provided in DNA reports?
The statistic provides an estimate for how common or rare the DNA type is estimated to be in the general population.
What types of samples are typically subjected to Mitochondrial DNA testing?
Bone samples and hair shafts are typically tested with Mitochondrial DNA.
How do I contact the Breath Alcohol Section?
The Breath Alcohol Section can be reached at (804) 786-6971 or by FAX at (804) 786-6139.
What types of internships are offered?
Internships are unpaid, project-oriented and are designed to be mutually beneficial to the intern and the Department. DFS does not offer internships consisting solely of “shadowing” experiences.
What if I need help applying?
What benefit programs are available?
To view benefits offered by the Commonwealth, please visit: https://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/employeebenefits. Here, you will find links to health benefits, retirement plans, holiday and leave, etc.
What are the work hours?
Typical work hours for classified positions in our labs are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Alternate work schedules are available and approved by supervisor discretion.
How often is the job list updated?
The list of vacancies in the “Employment Opportunities” section of our website is kept current. Submit your email address to “subscribe” and receive updates when new positions become available.
