The Wake County (N.C.) Bureau of Forensic Services’ Crime Scene Science Division recently became the first crime scene science division in the state to receive an accreditation under the ISO 17025 Standard, the same standard to which crime laboratories are held. Earlier this year, assessors visited the Crime Scene Science Division to conduct a thorough observation.
“In Wake County, we are committed to building a public safety system our residents can trust, and this accreditation shows just how seriously our teams take that responsibility,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “It reflects the professionalism and unwavering commitment of the Bureau of Forensic Services’ staff, who consistently rise to the occasion because they understand that victims and families are depending on their work.”
The Crime Scene Science Division underwent an in-depth review to achieve the new rating. This includes on-site interviews, observation of staff on-duty and a review of other components like:
- Training records
- Equipment
- Quality assurance practices
- Casefiles and recordkeeping practices
It is rare for crime scene science teams to achieve the same standards as laboratory divisions. No other North Carolina crime scene agency has received this accreditation. Wake County does share this accomplishment with other metropolitan areas across the country, including:
- Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Scientific Services Bureau
- St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Crime Laboratory
- Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Crime Laboratory
- Baltimore County Police Department Forensic Services Section
Working together to find answers
The Bureau’s crime scene science specialists work with local law enforcement agencies across Wake County’s many jurisdictions. They may be called to collect and analyze evidence from all types of crime scenes, from car break-ins to homicides.
Specialists collect physical evidence that may be helpful in solving the case. This includes swabbing surfaces for DNA, lifting finger and palm prints and collecting firearm cartridge casings. The specialists then transport these items to the county’s lab for analysis by forensic examiners.
The newly accredited Crime Scene Science Division is also supported by Wake County’s very own DNA lab, which opened earlier this year.
The outstanding teams within the Bureau and local law enforcement agencies work together to ensure that evidence found at Wake County crime scenes is analyzed thoroughly, effectively and efficiently to bring swift justice to victims.
Republished courtesy of Wake County (N.C.)