Re:$2 Test Identified Bird Shit as Cocaine. Cops Keep Using ...
by dogma1138 on Saturday October 26, 2019 @05:15PM
(#21366258)
Most forensic tests are quite broad including GSR and blood residue.
It’s not about what else they trigger on but how likely that this would be the case in a set of controlled circumstances.
A cocaine test that triggers on bird poop is still completely acceptable unless carrying bags of powdered guano is the new rage these days.
Same thing with a GSR test that may be triggered with certain other chemicals, you only get reasonable doubt when there is a good explanation why would you’ve been exposed to those chemicals nominally.
BTW medical tests aren’t that different, it’s up to the doctors to make sure they exclude all other possible explanations besides what they are testing for and we don’t really complain.
It’s not about what else they trigger on but how likely that this would be the case in a set of controlled circumstances.
A cocaine test that triggers on bird poop is still completely acceptable unless carrying bags of powdered guano is the new rage these days.
Same thing with a GSR test that may be triggered with certain other chemicals, you only get reasonable doubt when there is a good explanation why would you’ve been exposed to those chemicals nominally.
BTW medical tests aren’t that different, it’s up to the doctors to make sure they exclude all other possible explanations besides what they are testing for and we don’t really complain.