CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ANALYSIS

The Controlled Substances Analysis (CSA) Section, commonly known as the "Narcotics Section," tests unknown powders, pills, plant materials and liquids to determine if they contain any controlled substances, as defined by federal and California laws. The criminalists in this section use a variety of techniques ranging from basic wet chemistry, such as thin layer chromatography, to sophisticated instrumentation such as the Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer (GCMS).

CSA analysts are at the forefront of continuing education on what types of drugs may be available. Analysts attend training provided by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the California Narcotics Officers Association (CNOA).

In addition to the analysis of samples, the section is responsible for providing expert witness testimony on cases worked in the laboratory. CSA criminalists are also available to provide training in narcotics presumptive testing and proper handling and packaging of suspected drugs for law enforcement officers in the field.