Forensics lab reports surge in drug evidence, names new supervisor during Forensic Science Week

The Solano County Board of Supervisors recognized National Forensic Science Week and heard from the District Attorney's Bureau of Forensic Services about workload and emerging drug testing needs.

Elaine Plito, the lab director, said, "Last year, our lab saw an increase in drug submissions, almost double the submissions by law enforcement agencies, for suspected drugs." She told the board the lab is validating methods to test for new and more dangerous drugs and that "fentanyl is the number 2 drug that our lab sees, just behind methamphetamine." Plito highlighted the lab's role in court testimony and cold-case work enabled by DNA advances.

Brad (the sheriff) introduced Amber Blank, the newly appointed supervisor of the ID bureau, who said she has worked in the profession for about 25 years and with the county for nine. Staff thanked the board for continued support as the lab validates new tests and copes with higher submission volumes. The recognition resolution passed 5-0.