Neck & Fingernails Kit (NFK)

In accordance with Virginia Code § 19.2-11.6, the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) shall accept and store anonymous trace evidence collection kits in cases of strangulation where the victim elects not to make a report to law enforcement. These trace evidence collection kits, also called Neck & Fingernails Kits (NFKs), are referred to as “Anonymous NFKs.”

Anonymous NFK collection and submission:

When a victim of strangulation who undergoes a forensic medical examination elects not to report the offense to law enforcement, the healthcare provider shall:

Inform the victim that the NFK shall be forwarded to DCLS for storage as an Anonymous NFK for a period of 2 years.
Inform the victim that the Anonymous NFK will be scheduled for destruction after the 2-year storage period has passed, unless the victim submits a written objection requesting an extension.
Inform the victim of their right to request an additional 10-year storage extension and provide instructions for submitting the request.
Inform the victim that if an extension is requested, the Anonymous NFK will be stored for a maximum of 10 additional years (totaling 12 years from the date of receipt). After this time, the NFK will be scheduled for destruction, unless law enforcement or the victim contacts DCLS to prevent destruction.
Forward the Anonymous NFK to DCLS in accordance with DCLS’s established policies and procedures.

Anonymous NFK storage and destruction:

NFKs received by DCLS will be stored for 2 years from the date of receipt. After this period, they will be scheduled for destruction unless otherwise directed.

A victim may request an additional 10-year storage period by submitting a written request to DCLS before the initial 2-year period ends. See instructions below.

If the victim chooses to report the offense, DCLS will release the Anonymous NFK to the investigating law enforcement agency.

If DCLS is not contacted by law enforcement or the victim, the Anonymous NFK may be destroyed after the initial 2-year period or after any requested 10-year extension.

If you have additional questions regarding the submission, retention, or destruction of Anonymous NFKs, please contact the DCLS Evidence Custodian at DCLS_Evidence@dgs.virginia.gov.

For more information regarding the handling of Anonymous NFKs at DCLS, visit the topics below:

Submitting an Anonymous NFK to DCLS (for Health Care Providers)

To submit an Anonymous NFK to DCLS, review the Anonymous NFK Submission Instructions and associated documents below.

Submitting a request to DCLS to extend the storage of an Anonymous NFK (for Victims)

To request to extend the storage (object to the destruction) of an Anonymous NFK, complete the form below and return it to DCLS.

Anonymous NFK Storage Extension Request Form (DCLS Document # 62833)
Return to DCLS by mail or certified mail to:

Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services
Attention: DCLS Evidence Custodian
600 North 5th Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219

Due to the anonymous nature of these requests, confirmation of receipt cannot be provided unless the form is returned by certified mail or by contacting the DCLS Evidence Custodian at DCLS_Evidence@dgs.virginia.gov.

Requesting the release of an Anonymous NFK from DCLS (for Law Enforcement)

In the event the victim decides to report the assault, the investigating law enforcement agency or the Attorney for the Commonwealth shall request the NFK be released to the law enforcement agency by contacting the DCLS Evidence Custodian at DCLS_Evidence@dgs.virginia.gov.