Digital Hub
The Digital Hub began life in 2001 (then known as Forensic Computing) and was staffed by two technically minded police officers. The first staff member was recruited in 2003 and the unit has grown significantly over the past 22 years as technology has advanced.
The Hub is managed by Detective Inspector Tom Curlett-New. He explained more about its work and the vital role it plays in crime investigation.
Tom said: “The unit has grown significantly in size and technical ability since the early 2000s and is now known as the Digital Hub. With a 50-strong team, which includes more than 30 police staff (with 200 plus years combined length of service and experience!) the Hub handles everything from computer and phone extractions to vehicle telematics and CCTV/audio visual requests.
“The digital footprint on crime and policing activities has grown exponentially within the last decade and the Digital Hub is the go-to place for enquiries relating to digital and social media. With the majority of crimes now having some kind of digital element, Hub staff provide vital support to investigations.
“As technology advances, so does the training and knowledge of all the staff within the Hub and I am continually impressed with their ability to keep up!
“Criminals are becoming more and more ‘tech savvy’ and we need to be one step in front of them when it comes to new techniques and methods of disposing of digital evidence. Training and continued professional development is essential to keep pace with technological advances and be at the digital crime frontline.”
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Our work
Mobile Device Investigators (MDIs) will extract data and provide early indications of evidence on the device to the investigating officer. If required, this will then be provided in an evidential format for ongoing judicial proceedings.
Digital Data Acquisition Specialists (DDaS) will copy data from computers seized as part of investigations and process it for further investigation by Hi-Tech Crime Investigators (HTCI). HTCIs will liaise with the investigating officer before reviewing the evidence found and completing evidential reports as required.
Audio Video (AV) staff offer a varied support to investigations. This includes providing technical advice and assisting officers to download CCTV footage on scene, capturing and preserving audio and video digital exhibits, and creating court presentations, such as storyboards, edited and enhanced digital footage and complex CCTV compilations.
Digital Evidence Field Team staff are specialists in triaging devices prior to seizure. They provide a much needed early capture of evidence in serious and complex investigations, providing vital support to frontline officers.
Technical, Compliance and Training & Assessment Managers (TMs) are fundamental in supporting the whole unit in their accreditation activities, through technical assistance, compliance and assurance as well as training and mentoring.
Digital Hub Support staff are the glue of the unit, providing support to all the team, whether with exhibit handling procedures or day-to-day case management administration.
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Our people
Digital Forensics Unit Compliance Manager Jo told us why she enjoys working in the Digital Hub and some of the challenges her role brings:
“The Digital Hub offers a quirky assortment of knowledge, skills, experience and personalities – the perfect mix for an interesting and varied day at work. I feel privileged to be part of such a diverse team where there are few dull moments and always something new to learn from the talented people around me.
“Like any family group, we have our ups, downs and disagreements! But I really enjoy a healthy debate and see it as a positive way to share knowledge and develop the best practices for the unit. Everyone has something to offer and support and encouragement are never far away. The unit produces some amazing results and I feel lucky to be a part of it.
“Every day brings its challenges and it’s difficult to pinpoint any particular one. As I’m sure many colleagues will agree, the ever-changing landscape of policing keeps us on our toes and what might be ‘the way’ one day can change the next.
“The Digital Hub holds accreditation for some of its activities and is working to achieve it for others. Managing the increasing demand for forensic examination of digital devices is itself a huge challenge for the unit, and finding a way to promote, introduce and maintain accreditation requirements, without impacting operational output, is not without its difficulties.
“Fortunately, I work with very accommodating colleagues who understand the end goal and are willing to ‘give it a go’.
Amy is one of the Hub’s Mobile Device Investigators (MDI). She’s been with Northamptonshire Police for eight years and has been and MDI for three years. She said:
“Part of my job as an investigator in the Digital Hub is to examine various mobile devices to recover evidence and report on the data for the investigating officer.
“I feel proud to work in this role as it is crucial in gaining digital evidence for investigations and helping victims of crime. The challenge for MDIs and the wider team is that more than 90 per cent of crimes are recognised to have a digital element, which will only increase as technology develops.
“Working in the Digital Hub can be demanding at times, but as long as I know the quality of work I’m providing is at a high standard and to the best of my ability, and that is assists officers with their investigations, this is something I can continue to be proud of.”
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Find out more
To find out more about a role in our Digital Hub department and to view all our current vacancies, please use the link below.
