Forensic Evidence Specialist, Grant Service Specialist III (Ncs) - Baltimore Police Department

THIS IS A NON-CIVIL SERVICE POSITION

POSTING DATE: 04/18/2024

CLOSING DATE: 06/18/2024 AT 12:00 MIDNIGHT

SALARY: $62,550.00 - $107,530.00 Annually

CLASS DESCRIPTION

The Baltimore Police Department (BPD) is the 8th largest municipal police force in the United States, staffed by nearly 3,100 civilian and sworn personnel. BPD is dedicated to upholding the Constitution and enforcing laws in a fair, impartial, and ethical manner. We commit to creating and maintaining a culture of service that builds trust and legitimacy in all communities, values the sanctity of human life, and provides for the safety and well‐being of all. The department's jurisdiction covers Maryland's largest city, with a population of 614,000.

The Baltimore Police Department's Evidence Management Section plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and accountability of all evidentiary materials collected during criminal investigations. This specialized unit is tasked with meticulously cataloging, storing, and safeguarding a wide range of physical evidence and property, including but not limited to, weapons, narcotics, forensic samples, personal belongings, and documents. The responsibilities of the Evidence Management Section extend beyond mere storage, encompassing the organization and tracking of evidence throughout its lifecycle, facilitating its timely retrieval for court proceedings, and ensuring compliance with chain of custody protocols. The section's meticulous record keeping and adherence to established procedures are essential in upholding the principles of transparency, due process, and the fair administration of justice. Furthermore, the team works diligently to implement advanced technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency, minimize errors, and maintain the highest standards of professionalism within the law enforcement community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Forensic Evidence Management Specialist of the BPD EMU Section will assist with work that falls within the full scope of evidence management functions and assist in the timely dispositioning of evidence housed in our storage locations. The employee will perform investigative duties that support the Evidence Management Section and will interact with all agency staff. The member will be responsible for the following, but not limited to the following:

• Evidence/Property Examination and Analysis: Review and assess evidence and property items to determine their eligibility for disposal, release, or retention based on departmental policies, legal regulations, and court orders.

• Legal Compliance: Maintain a deep understanding of local, state, and federal laws pertaining to evidence and property handling, retention, and disposal. Ensure strict adherence to chain of custody procedures and confidentiality requirements.

• Documentation and Record‐Keeping: Accurately document all actions taken regarding evidence, maintaining comprehensive records of dispositions, transfers, releases, and destructions. Generate reports as needed for internal audits, court proceedings, and other inquiries.

• Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate with law enforcement officers, attorneys, court personnel, and other relevant parties to facilitate the proper disposition of evidence. Provide expert guidance on evidence‐related matters and communicate effectively to address inquiries and concerns.

• Claimant Communication: Collaborate with citizens who are seeking to have seized items or money returned in a timely fashion. Ensure that claimants are entitled to receive the items or money through investigative avenues available, including database searches, internet research and other documentation. Provide assistance to claimants to facilitate the proper disposition of property.

• Court Testimony: Prepare and present evidence‐related information in court as required, ensuring clear and accurate communication of evidence handling procedures, custody chain, and disposition decisions.

• Disposition Processes: Organize and coordinate the lawful disposal, return, or destruction of evidence, following established protocols. Coordinate with appropriate agencies or contractors for proper disposal methods, ensuring environmental and safety regulations are met. Coordinate with officers to ensure proper dispositioning documentation has been completed.

• Training and Education: Assist in the development and delivery of training programs for law enforcement personnel and evidence staff, focusing on evidence handling, documentation, and retention best practices.

• Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the enhancement of evidence management procedures, suggesting improvements to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and maintain compliance with evolving regulations.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, Forensic Science, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of evidence handling protocols, legal requirements, and chain of custody procedures.

• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to assess complex legal and procedural situations.

• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for clear documentation and court testimony.

• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills to manage multiple cases and tasks simultaneously.

• Proficiency in relevant computer software and database systems used for evidence tracking and management.

• Experience in forensics, law enforcement, evidence management, or a related field is preferred.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical standards.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The Forensic Evidence Management Specialist to the BPD EMU Section is to maintain confidentiality, discretion, and integrity in all communications and actions related to BPD work. Information is shared with only authorized persons.

HOURS/SHIFT:

Unless otherwise indicated, this position requires a five‐day workweek (Monday‐Friday), hybrid schedule (combination of in‐ office and telework) at the discretion of the CSU/EMU Director and/or Executive Command. Management may request applicant to work weekends with advance notice for special tasks/projects.

NOTE: Those eligible candidates who are under final consideration for appointment to positions in this class will be required to authorize the release of criminal conviction information.

BALTIMORE CITY AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER