Our History

The Saint Lucia Forensic Science Laboratory has played a pivotal role in enhancing the island's criminal justice system through its commitment to scientific excellence, regional collaboration, and continuous development since its establishment.

Inception and Operations:

  • Inaugurated on December 21, 2009, by Governor General (Emeritus) Dame Pearlette Louisy.
  • Commenced operations on February 1, 2010, enhancing the island's crime-fighting infrastructure.

Purpose and Standards

  • .Provides scientific analysis to the criminal justice system with a focus on accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.
  • Adheres to international forensic science standards with strict controls and robust scientific methods.
  • Serves police, prosecution, victims, suspects, and society with integrity and objectivity.

Key Contributions

  • Contributed to over 600 cases with favorable outcomes since February 2010.
  • Structured into six sections:

          1. Body Fluid Identification

         2. DNA Analysis

         3. Drug Chemistry (Seized Drugs)

         4. Evidence Control

         5. Firearms

         6. Crime Scene Support & Training


Infrastructure and Upgrades:

  • Nearly $4M XCD invested since 2017 for international standards, including repairs, equipment, and staff training.
  • Revamped DNA Unit with state-of-the-art equipment, including next-generation sequencing capabilities.

Staffing

  • Diverse team of experienced and emerging scientists with national pride.
  • Plans to expand staff for ballistics testing, crime scene response, and document analysis.

Accreditation and Recognition:

  • Began ISO 17025:2017 accreditation journey in January 2019.
  • Achieved accreditation in July 2022, driven by COVID-19 challenges.
  • Supported by renowned forensic experts and the United States Department of State through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Agency (INL).

Expansion and Collaboration:

  • Completed audit in September 2023 to expand accredited services to include DNA analysis with no non-conformances.
  • Designated a “Center of Excellence for Forensic Science” in October 2023.
  • Launched an annual "Regional Leadership Summit" to improve collaboration in the region.

Vision

  • Aims to provide forensic services to the wider Caribbean region.
  • Fosters high-quality standards and knowledge sharing for robust forensic services.

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