PHOENIX — The Tempe Police Department has launched a new Forensic Services Unit that was two years in the making.
The unit began operating on June 16 and features four fully trained Crime Scene Specialists (CSSs) and a fingerprint technician.
Chief Ken McCoy made the decision to completely halt and subsequently overhaul the existing unit in 2023 when he assumed his position. The previous iteration of the unit lacked formal policies and procedures, didn’t have the necessary equipment and the staff did not meet necessary training requirements.
“This new Forensic Services Unit reflects our commitment to excellence and care for our community,” McCoy said in a press release. “Every piece of evidence tells a story, and our specialists are dedicated to uncovering the truth with respect, precision and heart. This is about justice—and about serving Tempe with integrity every step of the way.”
To prepare for their new roles, the four CSSs underwent six months of training and spent three months at Mesa PD’s Forensic Services Lab, where they were able to receive hands-on instruction.
The specialists will be equipped to respond to a variety of scenarios including:
- Latent and visible fingerprints
- Shoe and tire impressions (2D/3D)
- Toolmarks
- Bloodstains and other biological evidence
- Trace evidence and potential DNA sources
- Serious injury or death investigations (when the Office of the Medical Examiner is involved)
- Buccal swabs, inked prints and other probative documentation
Tempe police said the unit will allow the department to process crime scenes more thoroughly and accurately.
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