The Crime Scene Unit is part of the Investigations Section. The members of the unit perform specialized and technical work. They process all types of crime scenes, including burglaries, robberies, sexual batteries and homicides. Their job duties include forensic photography, processing for fingerprints, interpreting blood spatter, and documenting shoe wear and tire impressions. They also write detailed reports, and prepare sketches for testifying in court.

The North Miami Police Department currently employs four Crime Scene Technicians. Although the Crime Scene Unit is made up of civilian (non-sworn) personnel, the technicians work very closely with the detectives and police officers to solve crimes. All four of the technicians have college degrees, and the unit has over thirty years of combined experience. Members of the unit are required to be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Crime Scene Unit is accountable for transporting all evidence to the Miami-Dade Crime Laboratory Bureau. Because of their attention to detail, their strong commitment to integrity, and their professional rapport with other police departments, they are often called upon to assist other agencies both locally and federally. They are also highly respected within the law enforcement field, and some members of the unit are certified instructors with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).

In addition to their daily job functions, the Crime Scene Unit is also active within the community. Members of the unit participate and give presentations at Crime Watch Meetings, Citizens Police Academy, Career Days, and Job Fairs. The unit participates each year with the ‘Citizen’s Night Out’ program, providing the community with an overview of the many functions that a Crime Scene Technician must perform. They teach college students and elementary school students. The unit assists with training new police officers in Crime Scene procedures and chain-of-custody issues.

The Crime Scene Unit is an integral part of the police department. Many people depend on them for their expertise, ingenuity, and professionalism.