The mission of the DFS is to provide high-quality, timely, accurate, and reliable forensic science services using best practices and the best available technology, focusing on unbiased science and transparency, to enhance public safety and health. The Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) is a division within the DFS.  The DFS’ FSL collects, examines, analyzes, and reports on physical evidence submitted in criminal cases as well as provides surveillance testing to identify emerging drug trends. The DFS FSL provides forensic biology (serology and DNA testing), forensic chemistry (controlled dangerous substances (CDS) analysis and surveillance testing), and latent print analysis forensic services to the District.  It is the objective of the FSL at DFS to provide meaningful, timely, and effective forensic analysis and interpretation of evidentiary materials when requested by DC’s Criminal Justice System. The DFS FSL provides forensic services to both local and federal criminal justice and public safety agencies within the District of Columbia.

Currently, the FSL offers Forensic Biology, Forensic Chemistry, and Fingerprint examinations.

• Forensic Biology: The analysis of biological tissues, such as blood, semen and , skin, for genetic characteristics. When compared to reference samples from a known source, modern forensic DNA analysis can be extremely specific about establishing identity. 

• Forensic Chemistry: The application of chemistry to unknown samples presented in multiple forms with a focus on controlled dangerous substances. The Forensic Chemistry Unit (FCU) provides analyses relating to not only criminal seizures, but also real-time drug supply trends in the district. The FCU also provides surveillance data anonymously collected from harm reduction centers and needle exchange service providers. The FCU partners with numerous organizations and agencies at local, district/state, and federal levels to provide these details quickly to better serve the public at large.

• Fingerprint Analysis: The examination of prints, both visible and latent, left behind from the friction ridge on human skin, typically the fingertips. Many methods are available to visualize prints, including physical, chemical, and through various light sources, allowing them to be photographed and compared.