The Sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit consists of eight non-sworn CSIs who are supervised by a Sergeant who is a sworn peace officer.  The unit works on a 24/7 schedule allowing for rapid response to incidents which occur within the region.  The unit offers full-service crime scene investigation capability as well as latent fingerprint comparison services. Additionally, the unit operates an AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System) which provides access to the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation AFIS databases.  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.

Each crime scene investigator is required to maintain a high level of training and education.  The majority of the team have Master of Science degrees in either forensic science or a closely related field of study.  Each CSI maintains certification as crime scene investigators through the IAI (International Association for Identification) as well as certification required for TXDPS AFIS access. 

Members of the crime scene unit provide guidance to and participate in regional programs such as the Tarrant County Child Fatality Review team and the forensic body/skeletal recovery team.  The crime scene unit also provides instructors to the Sheriff’s Training Academy to conduct forensic related training to law enforcement.