FORENSIC 3 CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY

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Forensic Chemistry

is the application of chemical principles to solve crimes.

Forensic Chemist

is an expert in chemical analysis used in crime investigations.

Forensic Science

ensures that evidence used in judgment is accurate and processed cleanly.

Investigators

must ensure the sufficiency of samples to allow repeat testing if needed.

Scrutinize

means to examine something carefully.

Evidence

is used to determine the truth in legal proceedings.

Direct Evidence

Based on personal observation.

Circumstantial Evidence

Based on inference, not direct observation.

Hearsay Evidence

Statement made by someone not testifying, usually inadmissible.

Speculative Evidence

Not admissible; not a valid type.

Real Evidence

Physical objects

Scientific Evidence

Provides objective, reliable information

Testimonial Evidence

Witness statements

◦ Presented by a qualified expert.

◦ Relevant to the case.

◦ Obtained legally.

Requirements for admissibility of scientific evidence:

Circumstantial evidence

can lead to conviction if it meets the beyond reasonable doubt standard.

Expert opinions

are only admissible when related to their field of expertise.

Paraffin Test

detects gunpowder residue on a suspect's hands.

Blue color

A color indicates a positive result.

case number, subject’s name, date, technician, witnesses, and hand tested.

Label must include

1887: Laboratorio Municipal de Manila

established – focused on public health and legal medicine.

Bureau of Government Laboratories

Oversight during U.S. era

1945

NBI organized in

PNPA

is not a forensic lab

◦ NBI Forensic Chemistry Division

◦ Manila Police Department Crime Lab

◦ CIDG-Crime Lab

Major forensic labs:

Ordinary Witness

Testifies only to what they personally saw or heard.

Expert Witness

Gives opinion on matters of science, art, or trade.

No college degree

is required to be a witness.

Drug

Any chemical that alters physical, psychological, or behavioral functions.

Dangerous Drug

Affects the central nervous system, causes behavior/emotional changes.

Drug Abuse

Non-medical use that harms health, behavior, or social status.

Addiction

Physical or psychological dependence on drugs.

RA 9165

Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002

Hallucinogens

Affect perception and emotion.

Tranquilizers

Reduce anxiety and relax muscles.

Screening tests

are not conclusive; must be confirmed.

Confirmatory tests

always follow a screening test.

Adulteration method

s (e.g., adding salt) can be detected.

Validity tests

are done to check for tampering, even without suspicion.

Substitution 

(using someone else’s urine) is detectable.

Qualitative tests 

only detect presence, not quantity.

Paraphernalia

alone cannot confirm drug use.