LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s CSI unit offered the public an inside look at crime scene investigation work during an open house at the Northwest Area Command.
The event was part of Metro’s First Tuesday program, which spotlights different aspects of the agency on the first Tuesday of each month at various area commands.
Behind the scenes of crime scene investigation
CSI Supervisor Tabitha Paine demonstrated proper evidence handling procedures during the presentation.
“Now, I have to wear a mask and two sets of clean gloves before I touch evidence or I will get my own DNA on it. So DNA is very sensitive now,” Paine said.
Paine explained she worked as a banker before joining the CSI unit. Though crime scene analysts are not sworn officers, she noted.
Crime scene analysts document crime scenes through notes, photography, reports and diagrams. They find and collect evidence like fingerprints and bullet holes, and handle the collection, preservation and submission of physical evidence.
The work extends beyond crime scenes to include processing and storing evidence at the forensic lab and evidence vault.
Community interest in CSI careers
Two young women attended the open house to learn about potential career opportunities.
“Definitely all of the behind the scenes type of work that goes into like the big crimes that people probably don’t think about. It’s easy to just assume that it’s right then and there. But in reality, it’s like so much more,” said Kassandra Herrera.
Amanda Lujan Galindo said the community event provided valuable insight.
“You know, they talk about CSI, FBI. It’s nice to have an actual community event and get more insight and just in the community level,” Lujan Galindo said.
Initial training for Metro’s CSI unit involves a 17-week academy that is mostly classroom-based. More information is available at protectthecity.com.
Metro hosts First Tuesday events at different area commands on the first Tuesday of each month, featuring various aspects of the agency including its air unit and sketch artists.
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