Review into drug driving samples concluded
A review into Synlab Laboratory Services Limited’s (Synlab) analysis of drug driving samples, specifically Section 5A Road Traffic Act toxicology testing for controlled drugs, has now concluded.
The review was led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and the Forensic Science Regulator (FSR) and included representatives from the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, the FSR, UKAS, the Home Office and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
The conclusion of the review is that due to issues identified with the quality assurance processes utilised by Synlab, all results produced by Synlab between April 2019 and December 2020, where they reported results above the prescribed drug driving limit, need to be withdrawn as evidence. No evidence was found during the review of any malicious intent.
In response, APCC Forensics Lead Darryl Preston, said: “This review has taken some time however it was crucial to ensuring it was carried out meticulously with the proper resolution.
“There is no doubt this will have been a challenging time for all those affected, and I would like to praise them for their patience. It is vital that all evidence entering the courts is unfailing and it is for that reason that we ensured the review was conducted to the highest standard.
“We are disappointed that cases have been rescinded and the implications this has on justice, but we welcome the Forensic Science Regulator’s review of these cases.”