Department Description:

The Crime Laboratory provides scientific support to all law enforcement agencies in Palm Beach County, including Federal, State and Local agencies. The laboratory provides analyses and expert witness testimony in the areas of Drug Chemistry, Firearms, Forensic Biology and Toxicology. The laboratory provides secure storage for all evidence submitted. The laboratory strives to keep abreast of the new developments, ensures that the necessary equipment is available to perform quality work and maintains ASCLD/LAB accreditation. The laboratory is also a learning resource to law enforcement, the courts and the general public by providing testimony, lectures and presentations.

Detailed Description:

CHEMISTRY UNIT: Performs chemical and instrumental analysis of exhibits, which are suspected to contain controlled substances from solid dosages, utilizing modern analytical techniques such as GC, UV, GC/MS, and FTIR. Responsibilities include preparing reports and testifying to those reports in court. Completes proficiency tests; participates in peer review process for laboratory reports and courtroom testimony; provides technical and administrative review to ensure quality of work produced; acts as secondary observer; validates conclusions drawn. Follows quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols of laboratory; maintains analytical instruments; receives and logs in evidence; returns or disposes of completed evidence; prepares laboratory reagents and solutions; maintains quality assurance records and other documentation. Performs all related duties as assigned.