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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing September 14-20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week in Solano County (Chair Mashburn)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No __X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No __X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Sheriff and the District Attorney recommend the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution recognizing September 14 - 20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week in Solano County.
SUMMARY:
In recognition of the contributions of forensic scientists to our Nation, Congress has designated the week of September 14-20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week. This week has been set aside to honor the many forensic science professionals who play an important role in the investigation of crimes, from exonerating the innocent to identifying the guilty. The Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office recognize the need to raise public awareness about the services and functions of forensic science professionals and therefore wish to participate in the upcoming 13th Annual National Forensic Science Week.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing this agenda item are included in the department’s FY2025/26 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2025/26 Working Budget. There is no additional impact to the County General Fund as a result of recognizing September 14-20, 2025, as National Forensic Science Week.
DISCUSSION:
Most scientists believe that forensic science began in China around the 6th century. Over the years, forensic science has evolved and even glamorized on television shows such as Crime Scene Investigation (CSI). In the early 7th century, fingerprints were first used to identify a debtor. By the late 1700s, forensic science was being used as a factor to determine guilt or innocence in major criminal cases including charges of murder. Throughout the years, science became more prominent in legal settings, and scientific discoveries were commonly used to decide the outcome of important legal matters.
The duties and responsibilities of a forensic scientist include searching for and collecting evidence at crime scenes, compiling written reports, gathering evidence, verifying the authenticity of documents, testing fluid and tissue samples for the use of drugs or poisons, analyzing tool and tire marks, giving and defending evidence in court, recovering data from electronic equipment, and using analytical techniques such as chromatography, electron microscopy and DNA profiling. Key skills include a logical, independent mind; meticulous attention to detail; excellent written and communication skills; objectivity and sensitivity when dealing with confidential information; ability to work under pressure; concentration; and patience.
The Solano County Sheriff’s Office forensic professionals include one Identification Bureau Supervisor, three Evidence Technicians, two Latent Fingerprint Examiners (which are currently vacant), and temporary contracted latent fingerprint examiners who assist in duties such as processing evidence in the laboratory, responding to crime scenes, assist in providing courier services of evidence to partner agencies, maintaining quality control of our automated biometric identification systems, performing comparisons for identification on criminal and coroner cases, and assisting in conformations for extraditions. Their level of expertise is critical in assisting in fair and just prosecution.
The Solano County District Attorney’s Bureau of Forensic Services include a Forensic Laboratory Director, Criminalist Supervisor, four Criminalists, and an Office Assistant, who provide forensic laboratory services in chemistry (the analysis of unknown material for the presence of controlled substances) and toxicology (the analytical screening of blood and urine for alcohol and/or drugs of abuse followed by confirmatory and qualitative/quantitative determinations) to all law enforcement agencies in Solano County. In addition, the laboratory provides expert witness testimony regarding analytical findings and oversees the Solano County's evidentiary breath alcohol analysis program which include training officers in the administration of breath tests for DUI investigations.
The forensic field has a wide range of practitioners with different levels of education, training and standards for performance. Solano County has multiple allied agencies that employ crime scene technicians who assist in processing and documenting crime scenes and analyzing evidence. These professionals provide exceptional service to their community.
National Forensic Science Week is an ideal time to recognize the contribution that forensic science makes to the criminal justice system and celebrate forensic science personnel for their dedication, commitment, and professionalism. In appreciation, Solano County would like to extend this recognition to the personnel at the Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office, as well as our allied agencies throughout Solano County.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt the resolution; however, this alternative is not recommended as this week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of forensic science professionals throughout the county.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The District Attorney’s Office collaborated in the preparation of this report.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION