The Forensic Investigation Section is an integral part of the Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU). Forensic Investigators are responsible for collection and processing of crime and accident scene evidence. Equipped with highly specialized equipment, training and techniques, Forensic Investigators are routinely called upon to scientifically discover, analyze and explain, the complex and often times minimal evidence left by criminals and victims. The Investigators are charged with the collection, storage and court presentation of all evidence that is taken into custody by Sheriff’s Office personnel.
Forensic Investigators are Deputy Sheriff’s who have at least two years of highway patrol experience, and who have shown an ability to thoroughly investigate and document crimes and incidents. Investigators must also possess the ability to testify credibly in courtroom proceedings. Investigators are assigned to work on day and evening shifts and they work under the supervision of a CIU Sergeant. Investigators are on call twenty-four hours a day.
Investigators are received a myriad of certifications and training in specialized skills:
- 360 Crime Scene Documentation
- Arson Investigation
- Latent Fingerprint Examination Level I, II and III
- Bloodstain Pattern and Splatter Analysis
- Bullet Trajectory Training
- Digital Photography
- Alternate Light Source Operation
- Accident Reconstruction
- Death Scene Investigation
- Tire and Shoe Impressions and Analysis
- Human Remains Recovery and Evacuation
The Forensic Investigation Lab is equipped with technology nearly as sophisticated as that of today’s criminals:
- Alternate Light Source and LASER
- 15 mm – 600 mm photographic lenses
- 42-inch ink jet plotter
- Digital photo processor
- Crime Scene LASER transit and software
- Fingerprint preservation, development and analysis equipment and cyanoacrylate (super-glue) fuming tanks
- Crime Scene Investigation Trucks - contain tools, supplies and generators and provide for scene investigation and evidence collection at all hours of the day and under all weather conditions.
- SABIS Terminal – Fingerprint Identification System
- Computer Forensic Analysis equipment
- OSCR 360 Crime Scene Documentation System
- TruNarc Laser Narcotics Tester
The resources of the Forensic Identification Section are available to all county agencies and the Investigators work closely with county police and fire departments.
