BOISE, Idaho (KIFI) – Recognizing the critical role that forensic science plays in investigating crimes across the nation, from proving innocence to identifying guilt, the Idaho Police Department (ISP) launched a nationwide I’m watching forensics week. From 18 September to 24 September 2022, we will honor scientific and technical professionals who serve our community in this vital role.

ISP recognizes the dedicated and talented men and women of its Forensic Services Unit, which consists of 56 civilian personnel. With three laboratories statewide, in Coeur d’Alene, Meridian, and Pocatello, the laboratory system offers services in Biology/DNA, Chemistry, Trace Evidence, Toxicology, Firearms and Tool Traces, Undercover Traces, Documents, and Digital Evidence. It offers. Technicians assist with crime scene processing, evidence investigation, firearm analysis, covert print processing and comparison, impression evidence collection and comparison, trace evidence investigation, and digital evidence.

Staff not only support law enforcement investigations through analytical work and objective testimony, but also engage and educate communities and educational institutions through demonstrations and lectures.

The week will include public presentations from subject matter experts on solving crimes through forensic firearms testing and forensic pathology at Boise State University on Tuesday at 7:00 pm. The event highlights the importance of science in solving crimes. During the event, winners of the Rick Groff Visionary Leadership in Forensic Science Award will be announced in recognition of outstanding visionary leadership in forensics by the Idaho State Police Forensic Services (ISPFS). The Boise Police Crime Institute is also awarded the Accreditation Plaque for passing high standards that help maintain public trust and confidence in science.

This week, the ISP’s social media will announce the first public tours of the three labs, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to size restrictions, lab tours are limited to a certain number of people. The ISP will announce future dates on social media for those who missed it.

Take a virtual lab tour to meet people and see the science behind the lab. Discover an organized way to receive, securely store, and track evidence. Learn about the science behind blood and breath alcohol testing. See how controlled substances are verified, watch experts process and analyze fingerprints, and take a peek into the world of DNA analysis from extraction to identification.

ISP Forensics Labs combines highly trained, dedicated professionals with highly modern technology, resulting in one of the most efficient and reliable lab systems in the country. Take a tour of YouTube here.