The Tempe Police Department is relaunching its Forensic Services Unit, which collects evidence at crime scenes, nearly two years after problems with inadequate training and equipment came to light.
Tempe’s revamped FSU includes one supervisor, 5 crime scene specialists, and 1 fingerprint technician. According to the department, Tempe’s crime scene specialists have been responding to all scenes since mid-June. They have undergone six months of training, spending three months in the lab and three in the field. That training covered processing the scene from start to finish, including documenting, collecting, and preserving physical evidence. Evidence collected can involve DNA, fingerprints, tire treads, and bloodstains.
“This new Forensic Services Unit reflects our commitment to excellence and care for our community,” said Tempe Police Chief Ken McCoy. “Every piece of evidence tells a story, and our specialists are dedicated to uncovering the truth with respect, precision, and heart.”…