Duties & Responsibilities of Field Evidence Technicians

It is the responsibility of the Patrol Operations Bureau Field Evidence Technicians (FET) to provide the Department with immediate and accurate crime scene and traffic accident investigation in addition to normal patrol duties. This is generally accomplished through the collection and preservation of material having evidentiary value. The role of the FET is thought of as a supplement to the initial investigation by a patrol officer, and a source of information for the follow-up officer. FET are expected to perform the following duties with regards to a serious crime scene and accident scene processing, as well as all other assignments related to his/her specialized training and ordered by a supervising officer.

• Crime scene/accident scene sketches and scale drawings
• Develop informed theories based on experience, training, and the evidence recovered.
• Development of latent fingerprints, footprints, tire impressions, etc.
• Evidence collection and packaging
• Field notes
• Photography and video taping

Crime Scene Presence

Field Evidence Technicians are deployed at the following crime scenes:

• Armed robbery
• Arson and bombing
• Battery/assault
• Burglary
• Homicide
• Sexual assault
• Any other scene deemed appropriate by a police supervisor.

Assistant Accident Investigators

Field Evidence Technicians may be deployed to process or assist Accident Investigators at the following accident scenes:

• Accident involving government property
• Fatal
• Hit and Run involving occupied vehicle or extensive property damage
• Property damage only accident with unusual circumstances
• Serious personal injury
• Suspected or probable fatal
• Suspected or probable serious injury