Chemistry 
Due to enhanced sentencing guidelines, the identification of a particular form of a drug is of major concern. By using instrumentation and techniques like Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, Infrared Spectrometry, X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer, microscopic examination, color tests and thin-layer chromatography, the lab is able to identify a wide range of different types of illicit drugs, controlled substances, and prescription drugs. The lab is also improving its capability to conduct both qualitative and quantitative analyses to support the investigation of drug cases.
The Chemistry Section, staffed by two full time Forensic Chemists employed by the Colorado Springs Police Department and one full time Forensic Chemist employed by the El Paso County Sheriff?s Office, and one part time contract Firearms Examiner provides the following professional services:
Drug Identification
Clandestine laboratory chemicals analysis
Blood Alcohol analysis
Arson and explosive material analysis
Firearms Examination
Serial number restorations
Functionality testing
Ballistic Analysis
Projectile and cartridge comparison
