Textile Damage Assessment Discontinued

Over the past few months, National Forensic Laboratory Services (NFLS) conducted a review of Textile Damage Assessment (TDA) services. It showed that the demand for this service – 86 requests over the last six years – is disproportionate to the significant investment by NFLS in maintenance, training and resources for TDA.

As part of its review, NFLS consulted with some of its clients and policing partners to determine the overall evidentiary value of TDA. There was general agreement that the discontinuation of this service would have minimal impact on operational requirements.

As a result, NFLS will no longer be accepting requests for TDA as of August 31, 2018. The decision to stop providing TDA will allow NFLS to focus on delivering timely and relevant services that are in high and frequent demand and that have the most probative value.

When considering TDA, please be reminded that it should be performed before submitting exhibits to NFLS for DNA analysis. In addition, every precaution should be taken to preserve the integrity of exhibits when sending them to external providers.

Many thanks for your continued collaboration in working with NFLS to provide timely forensic services. Sincerely, Ghislain Cormier Acting Director of Operations, NFLS