Forensics Division

Forensics Services 

The Durham Police Department Forensic Services falls under the command of the Investigative Services Bureau. The unit currently consists of civilian crime scene technicians and a forensic supervisor. The unit is tasked with responding to crime scenes in the City of Durham and assisting surrounding agencies as needed.

Forensic Process

 At the crime scene, technicians identify, process, and collect all types of evidence using various forensic techniques including photography, alternate light sources, various chemicals including Luminol, and other methods. Once a crime scene is processed, a technician is responsible for the chain of custody of the evidence collected.
 
 Reports are written and a case file is prepared for court. Technicians are called to testify in court proceedings on a regular basis and must attend annual trainings to stay current with forensic techniques and equipment.