Archives

Will the laboratory analyze fireworks?

If an item is commercially labeled D.O.T. Class C. Fireworks, it is not necessary for the laboratory to analyze the chemical content of the item. The Code of Virginia lists those fireworks that are “legal” and the remainder are excluded based upon their function not chemical composition. Oftentimes a videotape of the device being set off is sufficient for court. See Code of Virginia Sections §59.1-142 and §59.1-147.

Why can’t I submit debris from a fire scene in a plastic or paper bag?

Many petroleum products, or other potential accelerants, evaporate very quickly. An airtight container must be used to ensure that any product is retained in the debris rather than lost prior to analysis. We recommend clean, lined, airtight paint cans as the most appropriate containers for fire debris.

What does it mean when the report indicates that no drugs were detected?

There are no all-inclusive drug tests. Only specific drugs or drug categories may be addressed by any test or series of tests. When the toxicology report indicates that no drugs were detected, this merely indicates that none of the drugs in the specific categories mentioned were found at or above detection limits. Lower drug concentrations cannot be excluded. Further, it does not exclude the presence of drugs in categories not tested.

Do I need to submit an RFLE with my DUI/D case?

An RFLE is not required for implied consent or search warrant DUI/D cases where the blood samples were collected using the DFS kit and the kit is mailed to DFS. If the kit is delivered via a hand to hand transfer to a DFS Laboratory (i.e., in person), an RFLE is required to document the chain of custody.

There is a DUI/D Submission Information sheet provided in  newer kits that should be filled out and included with the submitted kit. If you have an older kit that does not contain the DUI/D Submission Information Sheet, you may access it here.

Are DNA profiles from solved cases maintained in CODIS and compared to profiles from unsolved cases? Does this occur in situations where the solved case involves the DNA profile of a deceased individual who was never arrested or convicted of an offense requiring submission of a DNA sample?

Yes, to both questions.  Once a case is solved and the evidence DNA profile is associated with an individual, that profile will continue to be compared to profiles from unsolved cases.  Further, whether the associated individual is deceased or not, the evidence profile from the solved case will be compared to newly uploaded profiles from unsolved cases as they are entered in CODIS.  This occurs whether an associated deceased individual was ever convicted or arrested for an offense requiring submission of a DNA sample or not.

I submitted a DUI/D kit. Will I receive a Certificate of Analysis?

By statute, the original Certificate of Analysis in a DUI/D case is sent to the clerk of court. However, if laboratory personnel can identify the investigating/submitting officer, a copy of the Certificate of Analysis will be sent to that individual.  Note: this is a new procedure for cases submitted after March 16, 2017.

I have an old case that is still unsolved. Is there anything that can be done now that could help clear the case?

If you have an old, unsolved case that you would like to resubmit for re-evaluation, please call the Forensic Biology Section prior to submission. The case file will be retrieved and reviewed so that both the examiner and officer can discuss the possible course of analysis that could be conducted prior to the re-submission of the evidence. This communication also enables the officer to know which items of evidence to resubmit to the laboratory.