Notice of Destruction of Toxicology Specimens

The Toxicology Laboratory of the Broward County Medical Examiner’s Office announces the destruction of toxicology specimens collected prior to 2008 from autopsies as part of death investigation cases and specimens obtained prior to 2005 from law enforcement agencies as part of driving under the influence (DUI) cases and drug facilitated sexual assault cases.

The destruction of these specimens shall begin on or about August 1, 2010

If you require any specimens be retained for retesting or possible evidentiary purposes, please send a written request for preservation citing:

1.     Name of the individual or agency responsible for initiating the request;

2.     Date the request is initiated;

3.     Name of the decedent, defendant or victim;

4.     Approximate date of specimen collection;

5.     Medical examiner laboratory case number (if known);

6.     Reason for extending the retention period; and,

7.     Terms of the specimen preservation, including the length of additional time the requested specimen is to be held.

All written requests must be received by July 20, 2010. If necessary, hearings will be arranged to explore these matters. Send written requests to:

Toxicology Laboratory

District 17 Medical Examiner and Trauma Services

5301 S. W. 31st Avenue

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312

Or Fax written requests to: (954)327-6582

If you have any questions, please call: Toxicology at (954)357-5225.