Forensic Science Division – State Crime Lab

The state's crime lab in Missoula provides scientific and technical support to Montana's law enforcement community. The staff uses state-of-the-art technology to investigate and analyze thousands of pieces of evidence each year.

National Accreditation – In September 2005, Montana's state crime lab was formally accredited through the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors/Lab Accreditation Board (ASCLD/LAB). The accreditation process involved a number of audits that evaluated the lab's management practices, personnel qualifications, technical procedures, quality assurance program and facilities. Accreditation is mandatory for labs to receive some federal funding. (Related October 21, 2005 news release.)

Drug chemist using infrared microscope

Each section of the lab specializes in a different element of forensic science.

• Breath Alcohol: The lab maintains and certifies breath-testing instruments used to detect the presence of alcohol in DUI cases. The lab also trains officers in proper use of the equipment.
• Crime Scene Investigation: Crime scene teams specialize in identifying and collecting evidence.
• Drug Chemistry: Drug chemistry specialists analyze samples seized in cases involving dangerous drugs and contents of clandestine labs.
• Firearms and Toolmarks: Scientists examine weapons and ammunition along with toolmarks and fracture matches.
• Latent Prints and Impressions: The lab identifies, preserves and compares skin impressions, including fingerprints, palm prints and footprints. Print experts may also work on footwear and tire impression evidence.
• Pathology: The state's medical examiner is a physician who works with county coroners and others to determine cause and manner of death. The medical examiner may also help identify bodies, document injuries and detect the presence of disease. The pathologist may provide expert testimony in court cases.
• Serology/DNA: Body fluids like blood, semen and saliva are analyzed through conventional serological techniques and DNA analysis.
• Toxicology: Toxicology staff members analyze biological samples for the presence of drugs, poisons and other toxins. Scientists often assist coroners in determining the cause of death. They also check for evidence of drug abuse by people on parole or probation. The Toxicology section has been accredited by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology since 2003.
• Trace Evidence: Specialists examine, identify and compare the smallest samples of evidence—hairs, fibers, paint and glass, for example—to make connections between victims, suspects and a crime scene.

Each year, more and more cases are submitted to the crime lab. Typically, cases are handled in the order in which they are received. Exceptions may be made, however, particularly if forensic data may help provide leads when public safety is threatened.

The lab does not become involved in a criminal investigation until it is asked by a state agency or by a state, local or other type of law enforcement agency. The lab does not conduct examinations or investigations for private citizens.

Forensic Science Laboratory Advisory Board

The nine-member advisory board represents law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys and the private sector. The board acts in an advisory capacity and is charged with:

• providing feedback to the Attorney General and crime lab administration on the work the lab produces;
• fostering better communication between user agencies (many of which are represented on the board) and the laboratory, and
• suggesting improvements to the lab and its policies and procedures.

The advisory board also acts as the designated body to provide independent external investigations into any allegations of negligence or misconduct that might affect the integrity of the lab's forensic results.

Contact

Bill Unger, Administrator
Forensic Science Division
Department of Justice
2679 Palmer Street
Missoula, MT 59808

Phone: (406) 728-4970
E-mail: contactdoj@mt.gov