Laboratories

Laboratory Analyses

The forensic laboratories analyze submitted evidence, evidence and samples obtained during autopsy, and samples obtained at a crime scene, using current scientific methods to effectively assist law enforcement and judicial court systems. The environmental chemistry laboratory analyzes samples for health and environmental agencies.

Drug Chemistry

Qualitatively identifies controlled substances in evidence submitted by various law enforcement agencies

Environmental Chemistry

Provides analytical support for Allegheny County's Health Department. The laboratory specializes in analyzing air and food samples.

Firearms and Toolmarks

Performs firearm operability testing, NIBIN entry, serial number restoration, fired ammunition component comparison, and distance determination

Forensic Biology

Performs serological and DNA analyses on physiological fluids and other nucleated cellular material for the purpose of identification and individualization

Latent Prints Analysis

Provides fingerprint support services to local and national law enforcement agencies via latent print processing, analysis, and comparison, AFIS/NGI entry, and postmortem identification

Mobile Crime Unit

Processes crime scenes, documenting evidence and properly recovering and preserving physical evidence

Toxicology

Provides postmortem forensic toxicology in Medical Examiner cases and human performance toxicology services for law enforcement agencies

Trace Analysis

Examines physical evidence submitted in criminal cases including homicide, sexual assault, burglary, vehicular hit and run, arson and explosions