User Guide

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Saint Lucia Forensic Science Laboratory (SLFSL) as your trusted forensic testing agency. Our commitment is to serve the cause of justice through ethical, unbiased, quality, and scientific forensic services in Saint Lucia.

This Lab User Guide has been crafted to provide you, our valued client, with an overview of the forensic services offered by the SLFSL. It is designed to assist you in the proper, safe, and efficient methods of evidence collection, packaging, and submission to the laboratory.

The importance of physical evidence in a case cannot be overstated, and the credibility and integrity of such evidence rely on its proper handling from initial observance through presentation in court.

This document serves as a guide and is not exhaustive. It does not supersede agency policies or procedures but aims to complement them. The laboratory intends to make periodic updates and changes as new methods are developed. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the laboratory. We hope that these guidelines will promote the maximum use of physical evidence and encourage greater utilisation of our laboratory services.

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Laboratory Services

Available Services/Analytical Methods:

The SLFSL provides various services, some of which may be outsourced to partner laboratories. The SLFSL reserves the right to select the most appropriate method and item for analysis.

1. Drug Chemistry:
2. Identification of Seized Drugs.
3. Crime Scene:
4. Investigation/Consultation – Assist in crime scene investigations.
5. Forensic Biology:
6. Evidence Examinations – Examination for potential evidence.
7. Body Fluid Identification – Identification of biological material, including blood, saliva, and semen.
8. DNA Analysis – Autosomal and/or Y-STR analysis.
9. Firearms Analysis:
10. Serial Number Restoration - recovery of obliterated markings
11. Toxicology (Outsourced):
12. Determination of chemical metabolites in body fluids.
13. Video Analysis (Outsourced):
14. Examination and analysis of CCTV footage.
15. Gunshot Residue Analysis (Outsourced):
16. Analysis of evidence using a GSR Evidence Collection Kit.
17. Trace Evidence Analysis (Outsourced):
18. Fire Evidence Analysis.
19. Paint Evidence.
20. Fibre Evidence.
21. Trace Metal Analysis.

The Evidence Control Unit accepts submissions from Tuesday to Thursday, from 08:30am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 3:30pm. For submissions outside of these hours, kindly submit a request through the Laboratory Director.

We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring a seamless and effective forensic analysis process. For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact the SLFSL.

Download SLFSL User Guide