Following an official investigation into analysis of drug driving samples by Synlab Laboratory Services Limited (Synlab), the results of almost 1,800 blood samples which they reported as being over the prescribed drug driving limit have been withdrawn as evidence. The review was conducted by the National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC) and the Forensic Science Regulator (FSR)
The move is due to issues identified with the lab’s quality assurance processes and applies to all results produced by Synlab between April 2019 and December 2020.
The review was led by the NPCC and included representatives of the FSR and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
The NPCC’s Forensic Lead, Chief Constable Nick Dean said:
“It is “hugely regrettable whenever evidence that has been submitted to the courts in good faith has had to be withdrawn. We know that this will have significant knock-on effects for people. The CPS have been or will be contacting all those whose samples have been rescinded.”
This review demonstrates, yet again, that forensic laboratory testing of blood samples in drink and drug driving cases is not infallible and should always be carefully scrutinised before being accepted.
If you are facing a Drug Driving Charge, Contact Richard Silver Solicitors
If you believe you may have been affected by this or any similar issue, or have a case like this pending, you should contact Richard Silver Solicitors immediately for advice.
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