The Arkansas State Crime Lab delivers forensic science services to support public safety and the rule of law across Arkansas. Through chemistry, biology, digital evidence, and controlled substances analysis, the lab helps agencies and the courts resolve investigations and prosecutions.
Below is a structured overview of the lab, its capabilities, and how it serves Arkansas justice and public health needs.
| Function | Service Area | Typical Turnaround | Key Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry | Trace evidence, fire debris, explosives | 5–15 business days | Evidence Intake Desk |
| Biology/DNA | STR analysis, mixed samples, kinship | 7–21 business days | Case Contact Officer |
| Controlled Substances | Drug identification, weight, packaging | 3–10 business days | NMLS Liaison |
| Digital Evidence | Mobile devices, computers, cloud data | 10–30 business days | Digital Forensics Unit |
Evidence Intake and Case Processing
This function coordinates how evidence enters the Arkansas State Crime Lab, validates jurisdictional authority, assigns case numbers, and communicates expected timelines to submitting agencies. Proper packaging, chain of custody, and required forms reduce delays and rework.
Forensic Chemistry Services
Chemistry staff analyze complex samples using instrumentation such as GC/MS and FTIR to identify ignitable liquids, explosive residues, and unknown materials. Reports are designed to meet Daubert standards and support courtroom testimony when needed.
DNA and Biological Analysis
STR Analysis and Mixture Interpretation
The lab processes biological samples for nuclear DNA, applies probabilistic genotyping for mixtures, and provides likelihood ratio reporting where applicable. Quality assurance checks and accredited methods support defensibility in felony and cold case work.
Kinship and Relationship Testing
When agency requests or court orders require paternity, grandparent, or other kinship assessment, the lab applies population genetics models and reports statistical weights consistent with national standards.
Controlled Substances and Digital Forensics
Drug Identification and Cutting Agent Screening
Controlled substances are weighed, visually characterized, and confirmed by chromatography and spectroscopy. The lab also screens for common adulterants and reports weight within compliance guidelines.
Mobile Device and Computer Examinations
Digital examiners acquire data from phones, tablets, and computers using write-blockers and validated tools. They preserve artifacts, extract logical files, and produce reports that link findings to investigative hypotheses while documenting every step.
Strengthening Forensic Integrity and Public Trust
Continuous training, proficiency testing, and external accreditation reinforce the lab’s ability to deliver reliable results. Collaboration with prosecutors, defenders, and oversight bodies ensures transparency and supports informed decision-making in every case.
- Verify jurisdiction and obtain a case number before submission
- Follow packaging and form requirements to avoid rework
- Request estimated timelines early and confirm updates regularly
- Document chain of custody and limit unnecessary handling
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I submit evidence to the Arkansas State Crime Lab
Contact the Evidence Intake Desk to confirm jurisdiction, obtain a case number, and review packaging requirements. Submit completed forms and properly packaged items through the designated evidence route to avoid processing delays.
What types of samples does the DNA Laboratory analyze
The lab handles blood, saliva, semen, skin cells, hair with roots, and other biological materials. They also support mixed sample deconvolution and low copy number analysis when method validation and case factors allow.
Can the lab recover data from damaged or locked devices
Specialized tools and advanced techniques may recover data from damaged media or bypass certain locks, depending on hardware, encryption, and legal authority. Consult the Digital Forensics Unit early to discuss feasibility and constraints.
What is the typical turnaround time for firearm and toolmark examinations
Firearms and toolmark requests usually complete within several business days to a few weeks, depending on case complexity, equipment availability, and whether comparative or exhaustive examinations are required.