Chemistry Unit
Drug Chemistry Units are located in both the Headquarters (Northern)
and Southern Forensic Laboratories. These units are responsible for the
analysis of submitted evidence for the presence of controlled substances.
Through the use of chemical and instrumental analyses, the forensic chemists
can identify almost any compound. Drug evidence normally consists of
assorted powders, crystalline rocks, tablets, capsules, liquids, and/or
plant materials.
 Chemists utilize a battery of preliminary chemical and
chromatographic tests to determine whether controlled substances may
be present in evidence items.
Positive identifications of controlled
substances are achieved using the infrared spectrometer and the gas
chromatograph-spectrometer. The predominant drugs submitted are methamphetamine,
cocaine, marijuana and heroin.
The DPS Southern Forensic Laboratory also
performs fire debris analyses for the entire state. Such analyses attempt
to determine whether or not a flammable liquid was employed as an accelerant
at a fire scene. When flammable liquids or their residues are detected,
the nature of the accelerant can also be determined (i.e., gasoline,
charcoal lighter fluid, kerosene, etc.).
The forensic drug scientists
are often called upon to present their results as expert witnesses
in the New Mexico Judicial Districts.
For technical assistance regarding
proper collection of controlled substance or fire debris evidence,
contact the Chemistry Units at:
Contact Information for North and South DPS Forensics Labs
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