Rhode Island State Health Laboratories

Forensics

The Forensic Science Section was established in 1938.
The mission of the Forensic Section is to examine evidence and provide expert scientific opinion in legal and criminal cases for police departments, the Attorney General, the Medical Examiner, and other law enforcement and regulatory agencies. This laboratory section helps detect and solve crimes, identify drunk drivers, and aids in the investigation of violent crimes, such as rape. Through DNA and CODIS (Combined DNA Index System), the lab provides definitive information  to close murder cases, even some unsolvable for many years. The lab produces confirmation of illegal drug use and drug trafficking more than 5000 times each year. It is science in the service of justice.

The Laboratory

• Employs forensic analysts using the most modern scientific instruments and equipment.
• Occupies 7,000 square feet of laboratory facilities at the Chapin Laboratory Building in Providence.
• Supports all state and local law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of crime through the use of the latest scientific methods.
• Provides expert opinion, consultation and sworn testimony in court proceedings.
• Works with the FBI and other federal agencies on disasters such as airplane crashes.
• Provides secure storage of crucial evidence taken in criminal investigations.
• Operates separate specialty areas, each with it’s own trained subject-matter experts.