Crime Scene Investigations

The Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit consists of a sworn sergeant and 8 civilian investigators under the direction of a criminal investigations lieutenant. Our investigators are specially trained, equipped and responsible for assisting in criminal investigations by thoroughly documenting crime scenes using photography, sketches and measurements. They are responsible for the identification, collection and processing of physical evidence to include: biological materials, shoe, tool and tire impressions, latent fingerprints and palm prints. The investigators are also trained in the use of numerous evidence processing methods such as alternate light sources, cyanoacrylate chamber, forensic evidence drying chamber, and various chemicals and powders. Investigators also routinely collect surveillance video evidence from local businesses and homeowners, which is then made available to detectives for further investigation. The unit maintains a laboratory which supports thorough examination, photography and packaging of evidence prior to submission for storage or further examination at the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Crime Laboratory.

Additionally, the unit operates an AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) which allows access to the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation AFIS databases. Investigators can enter latent prints from a crime scene into the statewide or federal database which searches all arrest files in attempt to find possible matches. Lastly, crime scene investigators routinely testify in court and are expected to give unbiased testimony regarding their findings related to crime scenes, evidence and fingerprint analysis.

The Crime Scene Unit works twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, allowing for rapid response to incidents which occur within the region. Our unit also maintains a regional response to assist outside agencies with crime scene processing and latent print collection and comparison. Examples of agencies assisted include: Texas Rangers, Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Saginaw PD, Everman PD, Lake Worth PD, Watauga PD, Forest Hill PD, River Oaks PD, Sansom Park PD, and White Settlement PD.

Crime scene investigators are required to have a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a closely related field of study. Each investigator is required to obtain and maintain certification as crime scene investigator through the International Association for Identification (IAI), as well as fingerprint certification through the Texas Department of Public Safety.