CRJ 311: Forensics The Work and Training of a CSI

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Work and Training1The Work and Training of a CSISandy Diaz (Echon)CRJ 311: ForensicsJennifer MaloonApril 18, 2011Discuss the history, training, and duties of a Crime Scene Investigator (CSI). In your answer,describe the evolution of forensicscience and the significant contributions made by pioneers inthe field. Also, explain the education and skills required to become a CSI and the challenges theyface in this profession. Reflect on how advancements in forensic science, such as DNA profiling,have changed the way crime investigations are handled today.Word Count Requirement:1000-1200 words.

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Work and Training2I am going tostart by telling you whatis aCSI (Crime Scene Investigator) and how itbecame a part of our life style in the work force today. Also I am going to inform you what ittakes to be a CSI.A CSIis aprofessional who is trained to analyze crime scenes, collectevidence, process that evidence, and return reports which can be used by law enforcementofficials and members of governments(Saferstein, 2010).It takes time such as days, weeks,months, or years to have all evidence processed, victims and witnesses questioned, interrogatesuspects, carry out search warrants, and testify in court.Each one of these tasksisusuallycarried out by specificpersons within a team(www.all-about-forensic-science.com).The word "forensic" is rooted in Latin meaning before the forum; this refers to theRoman custom of arguing criminal cases before a publicforum. Today, forensics similarlyrefers to the presentation of supporting evidence in court during criminal trials(Dillman).Now that I have told you a little about what a CSI is, I want you to know what exactly ittakes to become one. You are not just working in a lab but you are also working out in the field.It can become very physical and very demanding. “The crime scene investigator overseescomplex crime scene investigations, including but not limited to homicides, sexual assaults,armed robberies, home invasions, and property crimes such as burglaries. Approximately 70% ofthe incumbent's time is spent processing crime scenes, packaging and transporting evidence,attending and photographing autopsies and attending briefings and conferences with the policeagencies requesting assistance. The remaining time is spent preparing investigative reports,testifying in court, receiving continuing education, instructing classes and maintaining equipmentin a state of readiness”(Lotter, 2009).

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Work and Training3TheCSIworks at the office of his or her job assignment Monday through Friday, whichis normallyan8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.andmust accept scheduled after-hours standby duty everyother week.When on call, the crime scene investigator must be readily available by pager orphone at all times to respond to requests for service. In addition to the standby duty, theofficerisexpected to respond to emergency calls whenever necessary 24 hours a day(www.Feinc.net/CSI-desc.htm).Crime scene searches are often performed by extensive kneeling, stooping, reaching andclimbing. TheCSIwill handle objects of varying weight and shape and must, therefore, be ingood physical condition. Thepatrolmanis also required to carry firearms and may use assignedfirearms and other weapons in performance of his or her police enforcement responsibilities.“Also,the police enforcement responsibilitiesmay include occasional physical labor andendurance and be hazardous with regard to the physical and mental well-being of the incumbent”(www.Feinc.net/CSI-desc.htm).However, with this in mind, the officer must keep safety in mind, use good judgment, andarrive at the scene as quickly as possible. She/healso hasto keep any issued equipment clean andin ready-to-use at all times.TheCSIhas authority to determine the extent and nature of theservices needed at the crime scene. This includes what technical procedures to follow and whatspecialized equipment, lighting, auxiliary power, etc. to use.One of the greatest challenges inthis line of work is to apply the expertisein crime scene evidence identification and processingwith the ultimate goal of successful prosecution of the offender in a court of law.Once I have read about what a crime scene investigator is and what type of work wasinvolved I wanted to dig a little deeper to see how it all began.As I was doing my research I had

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