Field Evidence Technicians

Overview

The Field Technician Program is intended to provide technical assistance to the patrol officers on a day-to-day basis. It is felt that by having officers trained in areas relevant to evidence collection, crime scene reconstruction, and photography and to have those officers assigned to shifts for immediate availability, it will provide more comprehensive and thorough crime scene processing.

Training

Prior to an officer performing the duties of a Field Technician, he/she is required to successfully complete specialized and/or in-house training relating to crime scene/accident scene processing. Training will normally be conducted by the Evidence Technician and the Department's Accident Investigators and shall include:

• Recovery of latent fingerprints
• Recovery of foot, tool, and tire impressions
• Photographing crime or accident scenes
• Preparing crime or accident scene sketches and scale drawings
• Collecting, preserving, and transmitting physical evidence, including biological materials.
• In addition to the initial training of Field Technicians, the Department shall provide refresher training as part of the annual in-service training program.

In-house training in the areas listed above is generally accomplished in a 40-hour block of instruction and hands-on practical experience. Field Technicians also participate in an annual eight hour re-trainer in an effort to keep abreast of new developments and techniques in crime scene processing. Field Technicians may also receive additional specialized training that is occasionally available through outside sources and technical schools.