Hundreds of drug driving cases to be thrown out

Over 1,700 drug driving cases have been withdrawn due to problems identified by Synlab Laboratory Services Limited. with the way in which blood samples have been tested. Synlab Laboratory Services Limited are instructed by the police in England and Wales to test forensic blood samples obtained by the police in drink and drug driving investigations. The problems date back to December 2020, however we believe that the problem could date back to when the legislation for drug-driving was introduced. Drug driving laws came into force in March of 2015.

The scandal has forced the police and the Forensic Science Regulator to take action and investigate nearly 2000 cases that could be have been affected. In the majority of the cases, suspects had already been to court and been found guilty or pleaded guilty, been handed a minimum 12-month driving ban and given a criminal record. They are now being told that they should never have been charged. We are certain that the fault of the police or errors could have been identified, leading to a case being discontinued by the Crown Prosecution Service.

The Crown Prosecution Service are now contacting many of the people who were wrongfully convicted to explain that the forensic evidence in their case is being withdrawn. 

Could My Case Be Withdrawn?

The starting point is to check where your sample of blood was sent by the police. There are a number of different labs that the police use. When you were charged with the offence, (you may have received a letter in the post confirming the charge) the police should have included a Streamlined Forensic Toxicology Report (Stage 1). This report will confirm which laboratory your sample was sent to, along with the alleged drug or alcohol level found in your blood. Below is an example of the SFR1, also referred to as the MG22 (b) SFR1.

If you are concerned that your case was affected, it is important to make contact with us so that we can explain the next steps. You can also view our blog which outlines the failings of the police in a previous drug driving scandal, here. If you think your case involved Synlab, we may be able to appeal your conviction. You may also be entitled to compensation.

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