Sections
Drug Identification
The Drug Identification section analyzes solid and liquid samples for the presence of controlled substances. To meet accepted forensic standards the positive identification of a controlled substance requires two positive results from two diverse analytical methods.
Evidence Receiving
The Evidence Receiving Section is responsible for the intake, secured storage and release of submitted evidence, as well as, the associated data entry, record retention, and invoicing.
Firearms
The Firearms/Toolmarks section examines discharged bullets and spent cartridge cases recovered from crime scenes or at autopsy to determine the origin of the bullets and cartridge cases through comparisons with the discharged bullets and spent cartridge cases obtained from a known firearm. Additionally, the firearms analysts determine the mechanical functionality of recovered firearms and screen cartridge case evidence to determine suitability for entry into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) database for comparison with similar evidence from other agencies.
Serology/DNA
The Serology/DNA section examines physical evidence collected through medical-legal and/or crime scene investigations to determine the presence of body fluids such as blood, semen, and saliva. The analysts compare the DNA profiles obtained from evidence body fluid stains with known DNA profiles of submitted known standard samples to identify likely sources of the unknown body fluid stains.
The section participates in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) allowing for the exchange of forensic DNA evidence across multiple jurisdictions.
Unless otherwise specified in a laboratory report, genetic profiles entered into CODIS are uploaded to the National DNA Index System (NDIS) and/or State DNA Index System (SDIS) and searched indefinitely. Should the genetic profile(s) match to another genetic profile in CODIS, the investigating agency will be contacted, as appropriate.
Trace Evidence
The Trace Evidence section examines crime scene physical evidence that is not analyzed by other sections, including:
- Fibers
- Glass fragments
- Gunshot residue
- Paint
The Trace analyst must often develop unique approaches and combinations of analytical techniques to fully analyze the complex and varied submitted evidence. We strongly recommend that each customer discuss his/her specific requirements with a Trace analyst prior to the submission of the crime scene evidence.
Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometric Detector used by the Drug Identification section
Firearms Bullet/Cartridge Case Comparison Microscope used by the Firearms/Toolmarks section
3500 Genetic Analyzer user by the Serology/DNA section
Scanning Electron Microscope with Silicon Drift Detector used by the Trace Evidence section
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Criminal Investigation Laboratory
Physical Address
7337 Louis Pasteur Drive
San Antonio, TX 78229
Phone: 210-335-4100Fax: 210-335-4101
Operating Hours:
8am - 5pm
Monday - Friday