Rhode Island State Health Laboratories

Forensics

Specialty Areas

Breath Testing:
The Forensic Laboratory maintains the statewide Breathalyzer Certification Program for Police Officers. Laboratory staff gives on-site training to officers in using the Breathalyzer.

Contact: Richard Minogue, 222-1469

DNA/CODIS Analysis:
Crime scenes, especially in violent crimes, contain many kinds of evidence, each with clues that can help determine what happened and who committed the crime. The Laboratory examines blood, semen, saliva, urine, other body fluids and tissues, stains, clothing, bedding, rugs, and furniture. Through "DNA Profiling," the Laboratory can help police identify crime suspects.

Contact: Robin Smith, M.S., 222-5535

Drug Testing:
The Forensic Laboratory is the only laboratory in the state, which serves all police departments in the investigation of the misuse of controlled substances and the use of illegal substances. It tests pills, powders, potions, drug residue, syringes, drug paraphernalia, and botanicals. It assists in the investigation of product tampering and clandestine drug manufacturing laboratories.

Contact: Paul Iwuc, 222-5567

Sexual Assault:
The Laboratory provides evidence collection kits to hospital emergency rooms for individuals reporting rape in Rhode Island. Victims do not have to file a police report in order for evidence to be collected. Sexual assault testing is confidential. There is no statute of limitation on the reporting of rape.
The State Forensic Laboratory accepts evidence Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment. Arrangements for court appearances should be made as far in advance as possible.
 
Contact: (Chief Forensic Scientist)
David Uliss, Ph.D., 222-5593

Toxicology Laboratory:
This Laboratory is involved in forensic examinations of biological specimens for the presence or absence of drugs and poisons. These toxicological analyses are required for legal purposes. The forensic analyses of autopsy specimens assist the Medical Examiner in determining the cause of death. The specimens submitted by law enforcement agencies are from motor vehicle operators suspected of Driving Under the Influence of Drugs (DUID). These cases are primarily blood specimens for the presence of alcohol and/or other drugs of abuse. Scientists are available to provide expert testimony in court on law enforcement and medical examiner cases.

Contact: Laurie Ogilvie, M.S., 222-5565