Eastern Michigan University
Police Department
Evidence Tech Unit
Evidence Technicians aid forensic scientists and investigators by helping to identify, secure, collect and process evidence. Evidence Technicians help survey the scene of a crime or incident; write reports; and index, catalog and label evidence. Evidence technicians may also:
- Maintain records of evidence and write and review reports.
- Testify in court and present evidence.
- Look for trace evidence, such as fingerprints, hairs, fibers, or shoe impressions, using alternative light sources when necessary.
- Analyze and process evidence at crime scenes and in the
laboratory, wearing protective equipment and using powders and chemicals. - Package, store and retrieve evidence.
- Dust selected areas of crime scene and lift latent fingerprints, adhering to proper preservation procedures.
- Coordinate or conduct instructional classes or in-service classes and crime scene training for other officers.
- Submit evidence to supervisors, crime labs, or court officials for legal proceedings.
- Serve as technical advisor and coordinate with other law enforcement workers or legal personnel to exchange information on crime scene collection activities.
- Identify, compare, classify, and file fingerprints using systems such as Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
- Photograph crime or accident scenes for evidence records.
- Process film and prints from crime or accident scenes.
- Interview victims, witnesses, suspects, and other law enforcement personnel.
- Perform emergency work during off-hours.