SPI0048

Supplementary written evidence submitted by Dean Ames, Forensic Drugs Operations Manager, Metropolitan Police Service (SPI0048)

1. One question that was asked at the inquiry on Wednesday was the cost of forensic toxicology examinations.  Both for full case toxicology submissions involving deaths, violence and sexual offences and how that compares to the Operation Lester rapid testing service we are using to screen victim urine samples, who report that they have been spiked with a drug.

• Operation Lester rapid urine drug screening service costs £350.   Completion time 2-3 weeks.

• A full case toxicology submission costs between £500 - £2000, depending on the testing requirement.    Completion time 8 weeks.

However, owing to limited national forensic toxicology capacity and expertise, policing may have to wait several months before a case can be submitted, which is delaying investigations

• Hair toxicology costs between £1000 - £3000 depending on the testing requirement.    Completion time 6 - 8 weeks.

January 2022