The Houston Forensic Science Center has asked the City of Houston’s Office of Inspector General to investigate allegations made against personnel in the crime scene unit.
The request and the subsequent investigation result from an anonymous letter received by members of the HFSC board of directors. HFSC’s policies and past practices dictate that when such allegations surface the OIG is asked to conduct an independent investigation.
“We take all personnel matters seriously and the best way for to ascertain whether the allegations are substantiated is to have an independent, external investigation,” said Peter Stout, HFSC’s CEO and president. “The OIG is experienced with such investigations and is in the best position to objectively handle this matter."
HFSC’s crime scene unit fully civilianized in 2018. The unit has since focused on improving quality and protocols while fully staffing a 24/7 team that meets the city’s needs.
“These are our front-line folks and their transition to a fully civilian, independent entity has been the most difficult,” Stout said. “We will continue doing everything in our power to ensure the staff have the resources they need to fulfill their duties and a healthy work environment.”
HFSC is a local government corporation that provides forensic services to the City of Houston and other local agencies. HFSC is overseen by a Board of Directors appointed by the Mayor of Houston and confirmed by the Houston City Council. Its management structure is designed to be responsive to a 2009 recommendation by the National Academy of Sciences that called for crime laboratories to be independent of law enforcement and prosecutorial branches of government.
Republished courtesy of HFSC.