Cuyahoga County Regional Forensic Science Laboratory (CCRFSL):

The Cuyahoga County Regional Forensic Science Laboratory is committed to providing the highest quality forensic services to the community and its customers by ensuring accuracy, completeness and timeliness in all the analyses conducted by the laboratory while maintaining the highest level of integrity, impartiality, and professionalism.

The laboratory provides services in the areas of controlled substance examinations, DNA and body fluid identification, firearms testing, latent print examinations, toxicology testing and trace evidence examinations.

Customer Notifications:

By submitting evidence to the laboratory, the requester is agreeing to the following:

• The test method(s) selected for use by the laboratory, and to any deviation regarding the test method as deemed appropriate by the laboratory.
• The laboratory reserves the right to determine based upon existing policies, when the submitted items will not be examined as requested.
• The laboratory reserves the right to subcontract out any laboratory service, when necessary.

Extent of Database Searches:

Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS):

Latent prints suitable for comparison may be searched in local, state or federal Next Generation Identification (NGI) databases. The database(s) searched is listed in Fingerprint reports. Additional database search may be conducted upon request.

Combined DNA Index System (CODIS):

Qualifying DNA profiles are entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) in accordance with state and national regulations, where regular searches are performed. Notification is issued if there is a hit in the database or if the profile is removed from CODIS.

National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN):

Test fired and evidence cartridge cases recovered from firearms that automatically eject them are entered into National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, and their images will be automatically and continuously correlated against the regional database. Results of the search will be reported by the NIBIN National Correlation and Training Center. Expanded searches of the nationwide NIBIN network may be conducted upon request.

Disposition of Evidence Submitted by Outside Agencies:

DNA, Drug Chemistry, Fingerprints, Firearms and Trace Evidence:

Unless otherwise indicated on a laboratory report:

• The submitted items and any sub items (e.g. cuttings, swabs, hair, fibers etc.) created or collected from these items will be returned to the submitting agency.
• DNA extracts will be maintained by the laboratory at an appropriate temperature.
• Test fired bullets and/or cartridge casings collected by the laboratory will be retained by the laboratory.
• Images of latent impressions of value will be retained by the laboratory.
  

Toxicology Specimens:

Unless otherwise requested, the specimens will be retained for one year by the laboratory prior to disposal.