Civilian Police Supply & Evidence Technician (Non-Sworn) JOB SUMMARY The Civilian Police Supply & Evidence Technician (Non-Sworn) is responsible for managing and processing physical and digital evidence for law enforcement investigations. This role involves the collection, cataloging, preservation, and analysis of evidence from crime scenes to support criminal investigations. The technician will respond to crime scenes as instructed by the Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division or his/her designee. The technician ensures the integrity and chain of custody of all evidence, maintaining detailed records and collaborating with law enforcement officers, forensic teams, and legal professionals. Civilian Police Supply & Evidence Technician (Non-Sworn) will maintain the management of the Police department's equipment and supplies. MAJOR DUTIES 1) Evidence Collection & Processing:
- Respond to crime scenes to collect, document, and preserve physical evidence (e.g., fingerprints, biological samples, firearms, etc.).
- Photograph and document crime scenes, ensuring thorough and accurate evidence collection.
- Secure and transport evidence to the designated facility, ensuring the proper chain of custody is maintained. 2) Evidence Storage & Management:
- Catalog and maintain detailed records of all evidence, utilizing electronic databases to ensure easy retrieval and tracking.
- Store physical and digital evidence in secure, organized locations that adhere to department policies and legal standards.
- Release evidence to authorized personnel for use in court, ensuring documentation is accurate and complete. 3) Body-Worn Camera (BWC) Video Storage & Management:
- Manage the secure upload, storage, organization, and retrieval of body-worn camera footage, ensuring proper tagging, categorization, and compliance with legal retention policies and privacy regulations. Maintain detailed logs of video access and usage to preserve chain of custody for evidence. 4) Forensic Analysis Support:
- Assist forensic analysts by preparing evidence for examination and maintaining communication regarding evidence status.
- Perform basic forensic tasks such as fingerprint lifting and trace evidence processing under the guidance of senior forensic personnel. 5) Legal and Investigative Support:
- Prepare and maintain reports related to evidence collection, processing, and storage for use in investigations and court proceedings.
- Testify in court regarding the collection, handling, and chain of custody of evidence when required. 6) Compliance & Training:
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to evidence handling, storage, and preservation.
- Participate in ongoing training to remain current on best practices and new technologies related to evidence collection and forensic processing.
- Provide training to law enforcement officers on proper evidence collection procedures as needed. 7) Police Property and Equipment Management: Oversee the inventory, issuance, maintenance, and tracking of police property and equipment, ensuring all items are properly logged, functional, and compliant with department standards. Facilitate repairs, replacements, and audits to ensure operational readiness and accountability of all assets. This will include management of the Police Departments Fleet. 8) Perform duties as assigned. KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
- Regulatory Compliance:
- In-depth understanding of local, state, and federal regulations related to evidence collection.
- Knowledge of best practices in evidence collection, with the ability to identify and address regulatory issues.
- Law Enforcement Accreditation:
- Comprehensive knowledge of law enforcement accreditation standards with regards to evidence management and collection in accordance with best practices set forth by CALEA or IACP; or be able to obtain relevant certifications or training to assist with the accreditation process within 6 months of hire.
- Understanding of the accreditation process, including document preparation and compliance assessments.
- Stay current with industry trends and updates related to law enforcement accreditation.
- Communication Skills:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to prepare clear and compelling reports, proposals, and documentation.
- Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including internal teams, government agencies, and community members.
- Collaboration and Teamwork:
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and departments to address issues with evidence collection and coordinate evidence management efforts.
- Detail Orientation:
- Attention to detail and accuracy in reviewing code enforcement procedures, grant applications, and accreditation documentation.
- Ensure all compliance standards are met and maintained consistently.
- Education and Qualifications:
- Relevant experience, certifications, or training in evidence collection.
- Continuous Learning:
- Willingness to stay informed about changes in regulations to evidence collection through continuous learning and professional development.
- Technology Proficiency:
- Familiarity with relevant software and tools for project management, document preparation, and data analysis. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
- The Commander of the criminal investigation division or his/her designee assigns work in terms of division goals and objectives. The Commander reviews work through conferences, reports, and observation of division activities. GUIDELINES
- Guidelines include local ordinances, state, and federal laws as well as department policies and procedures. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK
- The work consists of varied evidence management, evidence collection, report writing, testifying in court, research, administrative and clerical duties. The variety of tasks to be performed contributes to the complexity of the position.
- The purpose of this position is to assist in directing the operations of the Police Department. Success in this position contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of agency operations. Civilian Police Supply & Evidence Technician, Police Page 3 CONTACTS
- Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, elected and appointed officials, court personnel, representatives of other law enforcement agencies, and members of the general public. Contacts are typically to provide services; to give or exchange information; to resolve problems. PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
- The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, or walking.
- The work is typically performed in an office, occasionally in the field. SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
- This position has no direct supervision over personnel. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or GED required; an associate degree in criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field preferred.
- Previous experience in evidence handling, law enforcement, or forensic work is desirable.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Knowledge of legal and procedural requirements for maintaining the chain of custody of evidence.
- Proficiency in using digital databases and software for cataloging and tracking evidence.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to pass a background check and meet any physical requirements related to the job (e.g., lifting heavy evidence items). -Previous experience in law enforcement and/or as an evidence technician/clerk preferred.
