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Forensic Chemistry

Chemistry services are available at all four Utah State Crime Laboratory Locations:

• Central Lab in Salt Lake City
  801-965-4382
  801-965-3833
• Northern Lab in Ogden
  801-393-4549
• Eastern Lab in Price
  435-613-5724
• Southern Lab in Cedar City
  435-865-8043

The primary functions of the Chemistry Section are to analyze specimens for controlled substances, trace evidence, and occasionally poisons. If you are from a law enforcement agency and you need to submit evidence for forensic chemical analysis take it to the lab that covers your jurisdiction (see the color coded map).

Jennifer McNair B.S. Chemistry, University of Utah, using Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer to analyze fire debris for flammable substances from an arson case.

The Chemistry Section of the State Crime Lab does not analyze body fluids. If you need body fluid analyzed for alcohol, poisons, controlled substances or their associated metabolites contact the Utah Department of Health, Toxicology Laboratory at 801-584-8400.

Scott McDaniel M.S. Chemistry, University of Utah, using a differential polarized microscope to measure the index of refraction of glass fragments recovered from the suspects clothing from a smash and grab jewelry robbery.

If you are a private citizen and you feel you have a need for forensic chemical analysis you should contact your local law enforcement agency.

The majority of our analysis is to support the courts. One of our duties is to provide expert scientific testimony in court where we assist the jury or judge in understanding the facts. We are not advocates for the prosecution or the defense.

We also perform analysis to assist in law enforcement investigations. We test evidence which is submitted by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

Mike Hepworth, B.S. Chemistry, Weber State University, is using the Fourier Transform Infrared Microscope to determine the chemical composition of a synthetic fiber from a homicide case.

Although we are all highly trained in the identification of marijuana (MJ), our current mandate is to provide local agencies with technical assistance and training in performing their own MJ analysis. We will still perform analysis for THC in charred residues and in paraphernalia, where MJ is suspected, but no botanical features of MJ are visually present. Our Laboratory conducts regular training for local agencies in the analysis and identification of marijuana. Go to http://forensicservices.utah.gov/pdf/marijuana_brochure.pdf for more info.

We also conduct Field Identification Drug Officer (FIDO) training. This training teaches law enforcement officers how to recognize and perform chemical color tests for controlled substances out in the field. For more info contact Ryan Barney at 435-613-5724 or go to http://forensicservices.utah.gov/docs/fido_reg.doc.

Justin Bechaver B.S. Biochemistry, Eastern Oregon University, using a Scanning Electron Microscope to identify chemical precursors from a clandestine methamphetamine operation. 

Bryan Holden B.S. Forensic Science, University of Central Oklahoma, is using a microspectrometer to measure the color frequency of paint evidence from a hit and run case.

As we apply our scientific expertise in the pursuit of truth we do our part to protect the citizens of Utah. And sometimes we make interesting discoveries.