The Forensic Identification Unit (FIU) assists other police units in the investigation of crimes by gathering, analyzing, photographing and evaluating physical evidence from crime scenes and motor vehicle collisions.
The unit is comprised of:
- Digital Imaging Technician (Civilian)
- 2 NCOs – Sergeant & Corporal – who oversee all investigations done by the unit
- 9 Forensics Identification Investigators
Forensic Identification Investigators are tasked with examining crime scenes for physical evidence such as latent fingerprints, DNA, blood and footwear impressions. To deal with physical evidence collected, investigators use numerous techniques including:
- Photography
- Alternate light sources
- Bloodstain pattern analysis
- Ridgeology (fingerprint examination)
- Three-dimensional digital scanning
- Firearm projectile analysis
- Reconstruction
Forensic Identification Investigators are detailed, thorough, tenacious and objective while performing their duties. Their training consists of a two month course at the Canadian Police College, as well as on-going additional training within RPS and through outside agencies. The world of forensic science is constantly changing and growing, and as a result, the members of FIU have to be familiar with many disciplines including entomology, anthropology, anatomy, physiology, genetics and chemistry.
In addition to their duties at crime scenes and in the Forensic Identification lab, members of FIU are often called to present detailed evidence from crime scenes during court proceedings.
The Forensic Identification Unit works closely with partner agencies such as the Office of the Chief Coroner, National Forensic Lab Services, the National DNA Databank and the Canadian Police Services Information Centre.