This Unit receives evidence consisting of diverse types and calibers of firearms, firearm conversion devices, firearm components, ammunition, and ammunition components.
The unit conducts functionality and serial number restoration testing on the firearms received. The ammunition-type evidence is microscopically compared to reliably determine if it originated from a specific firearm.
In addition, images taken of the cartridge casings submitted to DSS are entered into the National Integrated Ballistic Identification Network system (NIBIN), a database containing high resolution images of cartridge case evidence. These digital images can be compared to other images submitted by other Laboratories or Police Departments to determine if the same firearm was used, resulting in a database “lead.”
The Unit has trained over 97 officers and forensic technicians across the state in the use of NIBIN. NIBIN kiosks are currently available in six areas across the state for law enforcement to enter test fired and evidence cartridge cases.