Why is toxicology important in forensic science?

Toxicology plays a crucial role in forensic science because it involves the identification and analysis of drugs, alcohol, poisons, and their metabolites in biological samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue. This information is vital in various forensic investigations, as it helps determine whether a victim or suspect was under the influence of substances at the time of an incident, contributing to the understanding of cause of death or impairment. Furthermore, toxicology can clarify circumstances surrounding a crime, such as whether substances were administered to incapacitate a person or if they influenced criminal behavior. This scientific analysis provides essential evidence that can be pivotal in legal proceedings and helps establish links between substances and their effects on individuals involved in criminal cases.

In contrast to this option, the other choices focus on aspects of forensic science that do not directly relate to toxicology; these include digital data collection, criminal records, and fingerprint analysis, which are entirely different areas of forensic investigation.