VA Department of Forensic Science

The Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is a nationally accredited, independent forensic laboratory system, established by Virginia law, that performs scientific analysis and examination of evidence in criminal matters as requested by state and local law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, and Commonwealths Attorneys in Virginia, and as ordered by a court upon request of the defense. DFS forensic scientists evaluate and analyze evidence, interpret results, and provide technical assistance, training, and expert testimony related to the full spectrum of physical evidence recovered from crime scenes and submitted for examination. In addition, the Forensic Training Section offers services to the entire Criminal Justice System and in particular, to more than ten thousand law enforcement personnel throughout the Commonwealth. Each year, approximately 20 to 30 programs of varying lengths and complexity are offered, and about 600 to 700 officers are provided technical training. Th...