DEFINITION

Performs a variety of complex specialist work related to collection, recording, identification, and processing of crime scene evidence; performs other duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Evidence Specialist is a non-sworn working level class within the Public Safety Department that is involved in the examination, identification, and processing of evidence and photographing crime scenes.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED

General supervision is provided by a Public Safety Lieutenant. The Evidence Specialist supervises the crime scene he/she is assigned to process and may receive guidance from others involved in the investigation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Processes major crime scenes including the collection, identification, and preservation of evidence; photographs, video tapes, develops sketches, and diagrams crime scenes; processes evidence for latent fingerprints; compares finger and palm prints with records on file; prepares written reports on the results of investigative procedures; develops composite sketches of suspects or victims using an Identi-kit; copies audio and video tapes related to criminal investigations; prepares court displays and testifies in court as an expert witness; photographs and collects evidence at fire and accident scenes; processes photographic film and prints photographs; photographs victims injuries; prepares and maintains the Department's photographic equipment; photographs and collects evidence at autopsies; conducts analysis of physical evidence; prepares proper documentation regarding the chain of custody for evidence; assists in the storage and disposal of evidence; trains other department personnel in fingerprinting and processing and photographic techniques; prepares latent prints and enters them into law enforcement identification systems.

OTHER DUTIES

May assist in fingerprinting members of the public for various purposes.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience/Education

Sufficient experience and education to successfully perform the duties of the Evidence Specialist A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of four years work experience in fingerprint identification and crime scene investigation, and must have qualified in court as a fingerprint expert. An Associate of Arts degree in criminal justice or evidence technology or related field can substitute for Two years' of the required experience. Certification as a latent print examiner and/or as a crime scene analyst by the International Association for Identification can substituted for two years' of the required experience. Must have completed the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Basic and Advanced Fingerprint course.

Knowledge/Skill/Ability

Considerable knowledge of current scientific techniques of identifying, collecting, and preserving evidence; Federal, State, and local laws relating to the collection, recording, identification, and preservation of evidence in criminal and civil cases; photographic techniques and equipment; laboratory techniques, chemicals, machinery, and processes involved in the analysis of evidence; crime laboratory safety practices. Ability to collect, process, and analyze physical evidence without contamination; take and compare finger and palm prints; prepare clear, concise and accurate reports; prepare accurate sketches, charts, and diagrams; present clear and accurate testimony in court; properly handle laboratory chemicals and equipment; perform minor maintenance on laboratory and photographic equipment; work in the unpleasant environment of a crime or accident scene.

Working Conditions

Position requires sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, and squatting, crouching in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement, and fine coordination in conducting laboratory examinations, writing reports, and using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near, far, night, and color vision in viewing crime scenes and evidence. While working at a crime scene the incumbent may be required to walk on uneven and slippery surfaces and climb ladders. Incumbents work outdoors in all weather conditions, around loud siren noise and moving vehicles. This position may require working around chemicals, pesticides, blood, body fluids, and other potential toxic exposures. Incumbents are required to respond any time of the day or night and must work in the unpleasant environment of crime and accident scenes.

License/Certificate

Possession of a Class C California driver's license by date of appointment.