Forensic Scientists assigned to this unit are proficient in the processing of major crime scenes. This includes the detection, recognition, documentation, collection, interpretation, and preservation of physical evidence associated with the crime scene. Forensic Scientists assigned to this unit respond to crime scenes at the request of police and sheriff's investigators.

Forensic Scientists apply their specialized knowledge at major crime scenes, autopsies, vehicle examinations, and follow-up evidence examinations, primarily associated with homicides, officer-involved shootings, custodial deaths and major shooting scenes. They work as part of a team whose other members include the police agency Investigator, Coroner Investigator, and the Forensic Specialist.

Proficiency in CSI usually takes two years of on-scene training with mentor Forensic Scientists, combined with formal training from State and local forensic science courses. Upon completion of training and demonstrations of proficiency, the CSI Forensic Scientist has the ability to process crime scene, autopsy, and vehicle evidence independently and to testify in court as an expert witness.
 

For information about the photography and processing of latent fingerprints at crime scenes, visit the Identification-Field page. For information about Clandestine Laboratory scenes, please visit the Controlled Substances page.