The Drug Identification Section analyzes unknown substances, such as powders, liquids, and plant material, for the presence of controlled substances. Drugs commonly identified in Iowa are methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, LSD, and psilocybin mushrooms. Items involved in the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine can also be analyzed. These can include starting materials, by-products, and controlled substances in various stages of the manufacturing process.
This section receives approximately 750 individual cases each month, oftentimes with multiple items in each case. Testing can include chemical color tests, microscopic examination, thin layer chromatography, and instrumental analysis. After completion of the analysis for a case, the Criminalists write a report of their findings and will testify in court, if necessary, at the county or federal level.
Find more information on controlled substances at the Iowa Department of Public Safety's Office of Drug Control Policy.