UCO Forensic Science Institute received a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice to buy an evidence collection vehicle. Supported by Congressman Istook, the grant will give forensic students the opportunity to experience a cutting-edge technology for evidence collection.
"It contains all the necessary equipment that students will need to respond to a crime scene or mass disaster of some sort," said Dr. Dwight Adams, UCO forensic director and former FBI lab director.
The vehicle is equipped with laboratory and forensic tools that will enable the students to store evidence without contamination.
Adams said the vehicle will be placed into the hands of the students, which will be the type of tool they will use when they get their first job at a police agency or a crime lab.
"This will be a first-hand experience for the students in academic setting before they get to the real world," Adams said.
Elizabeth Paschka, forensic science senior, said she is excited about the vehicle.
"It will help build the reputation and the resources of the Forensic Science institute," she said.
One of the groups in the forensic master program is the technical investigator, whose work involves simulated crime scenes.
"This vehicle will allow us to go out to better simulated crime scenes," said Dr. Cheryl Frech, chairperson of the chemistry department.
The truck will be provided from Sirchie Laboratories, a company in New Jersey, which is the only location for building these vehicles in the country.
The grant of nearly $100,000 received from the U.S. Department of Justice is routinely awarded to law enforcement agencies and academic programs related to the criminal justice system or evidence collection and preservation.
The van will be used to educate people about the forensic science and will be taken to some community events.
Be the first to comment on this article!