Evidence Technician (Forensic) - Sheriff

Description

Duties and Responsibilities

• Receiving and maintaining secure custody of evidence and property, ensuring property received matches all associated records, including a proper chain of custody.
• Assists Deputies and other officials, as necessary, to ensure proper and timely completion of paperwork or digital records pertaining to evidence processing and storage.
• Organizes and catalogs evidence and property, prepares and maintains related computer records.
• Completes data entry and research tasks by utilizing multiple computer systems and sites to track receipts, inventory, dispositions, and/or release information relative to evidence and other properties.
• Prepares, submits and transports evidence for laboratory analysis and prepares all associated paperwork in compliance with the laboratories policies and procedures.
• Conducts routine pick-ups and deliveries of laboratory evidence at various government entities and inter-agency offices, and evidence returns to the Sheriff’s Office.
• Makes copies, uploads, downloads and creates retention times for agencies requested digital in-car video system and body worn cameras.
• Disseminates copies of evidence for Rule 5 requests and subpoenas received by the legal office, while preserving the chain of custody to ensure proper dissemination and disposition.
• Signs out evidence to Department personnel, attorneys, court personnel, federal agencies, etc. as appropriate, and ensures proper and timely return.
• Performs a yearly evidence audit and destruction. Destroys and disposes of evidence by obtaining officer authorization, reviewing and tracking dispositions for disposal or release.
• Receives and executes court orders for gun forfeitures and evidence destruction.
• Assists in the proper storage of and preparation for the disposal and destruction of controlled substances, biohazard materials, weapons, and other unknown materials and substances.
• Conducts forensic examination, processing, and collecting of evidence to include photographing, print collection, latent print comparisons, DNA collection, etc.
• Provides written reports of all findings and proper timely dissemination of results.
• Assembles and organizes evidence for deputies, crime scene personnel, or the Solicitor’s Office for presentation in court; may be requested to testify in court.
• Answers telephones and provides information pertaining to evidence and property available for release.
• Assists with presentations at schools and office tours for new employees, interns, students, etc.
• Runs NCIC e-Agent mental health and background checks prior to returning firearms to owner and receiving a completed signed copy of the agency required Firearms Release Form.
• Evidence Technicians may be designated to report to work during hazardous weather or emergency conditions and/or requested to assist Investigators on scenes.

Minimum Qualifications

• US Citizen
• High school diploma (or GED)
• Valid South Carolina driver's license or the ability to obtain one.
• Honorably discharged from the military (if applicable).
• Have no pending cases or criminal felony convictions (misdemeanors may require expungement).
• No THC or Marijuana use within 365 days; some drugs are automatic disqualifiers.
• No student loans in default status.
• Must pass background checks and successfully complete the full application process which includes the Nelson Denny reading and comprehension test, panel interview, polygraph exam, psychological exam, and pre-employment physical.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency in PC applications using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• National Crime Information Center (NCIC) certification or the ability to gain certification within six months of employment.
• An International Association for Property and Evidence, Inc. (IAPE) certification or the ability to gain certification within 1 year of employment.
• Ability to use EIS or complete EIS training.
• Substantial oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to learn applicable federal, state, and local criminal and civil laws, codes and regulations.
• Familiarity with law enforcement, court systems, and criminal procedures related to the processing, retention, and disposal of evidence.
• Ability to learn safety and security methods and practices involved in the handling and storage of firearms, narcotics, money and bio-hazardous materials.