Firearms Section

The Firearms Section functions to supply the criminal justice system and community of Nassau County with a state-of-the-art forensic Firearms examination facility.   The Firearms section conducts independent scientific analysis on physical evidence including firearms, ammunition, and expended components of ammunition that are collected by law enforcement agencies within Nassau County.

Services Provided & Test Methods

The following is a list of general services provided by the Firearms Section:

• Perform operability examinations on submitted firearms
• Classify submitted questioned expended items of ammunition 
• Microscopically examine and compare questioned expended items of ammunition collected from scenes to determine if they originated from the same weapon
• Microscopically examine and compare known test fired expended items of ammunition with questioned expended items of ammunition to determine if the questioned expended items were fired within a particular firearm.
• Acquire and search images of expended casings in the NIBIN database
• Offer training to law enforcement agencies
• Preparation of scientific reports
• Expert testimony

NIBIN Database

Images of expended ballistic evidence may be entered into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) to be searched against the automatic correlation zone.  The automatic correlation zone is conducted at a regional level spanning numerous jurisdictions.  Correlation reviews may result in a determination of potential matches or NIBIN Leads.   The laboratory will compare potential matches or leads by formal request of its user agencies.  All images in the NIBIN system are retained indefinitely. 

In appropriate circumstances, a modified or expanded search may be conducted.  Questions about the correlation zones can be directed to Leads Online. Please contact the DFS Firearms Section or The NIBIN Program Administrator to confirm, modify or expand a search based on the circumstances of a particular case.

Customer Feedback

The Firearms Section strives to provide the highest quality forensic testing services to our customers in a timely fashion. The laboratory management welcomes feedback regarding both positive observations as well as suggestions for improvement of laboratory services. Please use our Laboratory Services Feedback Forms which can be returned by Email or facsimile.