A criminalist examines physical evidence from a crime scene to find the link between evidence, suspect and victim. Criminalists sort, analyze, and identify the physical evidence, using scientific methods, and prepares useful information for a criminal investigation or trial. They interpret the results of their analyses and tests to determine when, how and with what the crime was committed. They prepare written reports that are presented to their supervisors as well as used as expert witness testimony in the legal system. Criminalists work in forensic laboratories in police departments, sheriff's offices, district attorney's offices, regional and state agencies, medical examiners' offices, private companies, colleges and universities, and for federal agencies such as the DEA, ATF, CIA and the FBI.
Forensic Evidence Technicians
The Forensic Evidence Technician Unit consists of 3 Forensic Evidence Technicians and 1 Unit Supervisor. The Forensic Evidence Technician uses the following skills in their position: photography; documentation; proper collection, preservation and packaging of evidence; swabbing for DNA evidence; taking post-mortem fingerprints; report writing; video and digital imaging knowledge. The FET Unit provides forensic support and investigation activities for law enforcement agencies throughout Marion County.
The major function of the FET Unit is to assist the forensic pathologist with complex medico legal autopsiesinvolving homicides, suicides, vehicle crash fatalities, and other questionable deaths. Their responsibility during the autopsy includes collecting evidence, photography, and taking post-mortem fingerprints for identification and/or elimination. The Forensic Evidence Technician may be called to testify in court.