This department assists with the forensic investigation of crime using advanced techniques to capture DNA, fingerprints and other forensic evidence.

Forensic Investigation

Are responsible for the recording and recovery of photographic and forensic evidence from a wide range of crime scenes, ranging from volume crime (such as thefts, burglaries and vehicle related crime) to major crime (such as murders, rapes and armed robberies). In addition, forensic intelligence collated by our Investigators is then disseminated to police investigators and neighbouring forces by the Forensic Intelligence Analyst and Researcher. The Centralised Administration Unit at Force Headquarters assists with scene examination bookings, deployment of operational Forensic Investigators, and forensic submissions; offering a support and advice service to members of the public, police officers and forensic service providers. The Photographic Imaging Unit maintains a digital library of images recorded by Forensic Investigators.


Fingerprint Bureau

Search and identify finger marks from crime scenes, using (in part) a National Automated Fingerprint Identification System known as Ident1. The Bureau also undertake proof of identity checks, including arrestees for Ident1, and prepare expert witness evidence for court.


Chemical Laboratory

Undertakes the chemical enhancement and photography of finger marks recovered from crime scenes on a wide variety of surfaces.


Livescan Management Team

Process fingerprint forms from arrestees and others for entry onto Livescan. Crime scene finger marks recovered by Forensic Investigators are scanned onto Livescan ready for searching by the Fingerprint Bureau.