5-08/010.35 - Responsibility for Evidence



When a defendant is arrested and booked, the blood-alcohol sample shall be delivered to Scientific Services Bureau by either the investigating officer, another Deputy so designated by the Unit Commander or by the Scientific Services Bureau courier at the earliest possible time.

In misdemeanor cases where test results indicate .08 or more blood-alcohol, additional toxicology tests will not be completed unless extenuating circumstances exist; however, in felony cases, additional toxicology tests will be completed if requested.

The sample package shall be marked to indicate either misdemeanor or felony, and this fact shall be recorded on the evidence laboratory receipt by the employee transporting the sample.

The retention period for blood-alcohol samples shall be for one year from the date of arrest unless otherwise ordered.  It is the responsibility of the assigned investigator in felony cases to order the retention of blood-alcohol samples for periods in excess of one year.