Behind the Yellow Tape- A Closer Look at FCPD’s Crime Scene Section  

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Fairfax County, VA– Precision and excellence are two words that perfectly describe FCPD’s Crime Scene Section; a dynamic force of professionals dedicated to gathering evidence and serving justice with unwavering expertise.

Origins and Evolution

The roots of the Crime Scene Section stretch back to the mid-1940s when the first crime scene detectives, initially known as Identification Officers, took on the task of evidence collection. Over the decades, this section evolved and expanded, officially becoming the Crime Scene Section in the early 1990s. The Crime Scene Section is now comprised of 20 detectives, 2 civilians, and 3 supervisors. Today, it stands as a testament to the department’s commitment to staying at the forefront of investigative techniques.

Specialized Expertise

The Crime Scene Section undergoes rigorous training provided by the Fairfax County Police Department. They undergo three months of field training instruction for property crimes and an extensive six-month program for major case crimes to equip these professionals with the skills needed to navigate the intricacies of crime scenes. In addition, they also receive specialized training in crime scene photography to further enhance their abilities.

A distinguishing feature of this unit is the pursuit of excellence through continuous learning. Officers have the opportunity to acquire an endless number of certifications, showcasing their commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in forensic science and investigation.

Versatility in Action

The Crime Scene Section stands ready to respond to a diverse range of calls, including violent crimes, property crimes, search warrants, death cases, and providing support to other investigative units and patrol officers. Their versatility serves as the foundation for the successful resolution of cases, showcasing their ability to seamlessly adapt to the evolving nature of criminal investigations. Their swift response and ability to navigate diverse scenarios make them an invaluable asset to the Fairfax County Police Department.

State-of-the-Art Tools

Armed with cutting-edge equipment, the Crime Scene Section employs cameras, 3D scanners, drones, alternative light sources, lasers, chemical processing tools, and even a mobile forensic lab.

The mobile forensic lab is a vehicle designed to accommodate portable equipment, including lighting and a generator for powering tools at crime scenes. It also features a compact laboratory area where detectives can employ alternate light sources, chemical processing, and work comfortably in a climate-controlled environment. While not the primary preference, the mobile lab proves invaluable in situations demanding urgent attention due to its ability to provide detectives with essential tools at any scene. The mobile forensic lab is typically deployed in major incidents such as homicides or officer-involved shootings, it is also utilized when an extended scene duration is anticipated, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Explore Career Opportunities

Considering a role in crime scene investigations? Explore the exciting opportunities available by joining our team! Visit our website to discover more about becoming a detective with FCPD, where you’ll have the chance to contribute to the pursuit of justice, hone your investigative skills, and make a meaningful impact in safeguarding our community.

For more ways to stay connected, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.