Frequently, ARL has the opportunity to work with clients in relation to samples of a suspect nature. The suspect nature could arise from diverse issues such as potential product tampering, drug diversion, and/or patient complaints. Regardless, ARL understands the importance of working with the client to find the truth.

Suspect sample analysis is an important part of the services ARL provides to its clients. It is vital to ARL and the client for a "suspect sample" to be identified when analysis is requested. For suspect samples, ARL follows a different process and takes additional security measures to ensure the analysis addresses key questions for our clients.

When working with a "suspect" sample. ARL does the following:

• Performs additional documentation on the received status of the sample including:

1. digital documentation through photographs
2. greater detail in sample description (quantity, color, packaging, etc.)
3. physical examination of the sample for tampering (multiple puncture marks, false labeling, etc.)

• Tracks the item with the proper chain of custody
• Analyzes the sample with a validated method under validated conditions (when available – including longer run times, collecting full spectrums, etc.)
• Conserves the sample as much as possible while still performing suitable analysis
• Retains at least 50 percent of the sample for retesting or testing by another independent laboratory
• Identifies the sample as "suspect" and takes suitable precautions if it may have come in contact with biological material
• Gives the sample a longer retaining period instead of the standard 90 days

Recognizing that a sample may be a complaint sample is the first step in ordering analyses. Communicating with the contract laboratory is vitally important since initial communications on scope of analysis and expected outcomes will save the client money and time.
 
ARL has over 70 years combined experience in forensics. From consultation to analytical testing to expert witness testimony, ARL stands behind the quality of the services it provides and strives to ensure our clients have data that is accurate and legally defensible.

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