The Crime Laboratory offers forensic services across seven scientific disciplines within two divisions: the Technical Services Division and the Forensic Sciences Division. The Forensic Science Division includes the following disciplines: Toxicology, Seized Drugs, Fire Debris, Biology (DNA), Firearms, and Friction Ridge (Latent and Ten Print). The Technical Services Division houses the Crime Scene Investigation discipline, which is responsible for maintaining the quality and integrity of crime scene evidence throughout its handling, transport, and processing. The Quality Assurance Unit oversees the implementation and ongoing monitoring of a quality management system across all disciplines within the Crime Laboratory.
The PBSO Crime Laboratory maintained national accreditation from 1991 to 2012. In 2012, the laboratory earned international accreditation for compliance with the International Standard ISO/IEC 17025, along with additional forensic testing supplemental standards. Today, we continue to maintain international accreditation through regular assessments by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). This achievement is made possible by the dedication and support of all Crime Laboratory scientists, examiners, and support staff.
The Biology and Firearms disciplines also comply with the FBI QAS for Forensic DNA Caseworking Laboratories and ATF MROS standards, respectively. Addition, many of our qualified scientists, examiners, and investigators hold national certifications in their scientific specialty, an uncommon accomplishment in forensic laboratories.
The PBSO forensic databases are crucial crime-fighting tools that have provided, and continue to provide, valuable investigative leads for law enforcement. Database “hits” are routinely processed in Firearms, Biology, and Friction Ridge.
The Crime Laboratory receives hundreds of thousands of dollars annually in federal grants to upgrade instruments, validate new technologies, provide training for the scientists and increase efficiency and capacity within the units. Interns and volunteers are an important part of several units, allowing for firsthand experience while providing additional support.
The PBSO Forensic Scientists publish scientific results and book chapters in peer-reviewed journals, present novel technical methodologies at national and international meetings and are active members of national, state and local scientific advisory boards.
The Crime Laboratory staff strives to provide valuable forensic services to the citizens of Palm Beach County.
Tate Yeatman, M.S., F-ABFT, ABC-DA
Crime Laboratory Director
