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LANSING, MICH. The Michigan State Police (MSP) Forensic Science Division hosted 150 criminal justice partners including prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges and criminal investigators to learn directly from members of its Forensic Science Division during the department’s inaugural Forensic Science and Criminal Justice Conference held December 2 – 3 in Novi.
“As the state’s largest forensic science provider, this was a wonderful way to provide awareness and education about our services and the important role of forensic science in our criminal justice system,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP.
Day one of the conference had attendees together for sessions on the history and role of forensics, standards and accreditation, mitigating bias, forensic legal decisions, case presentation and an overview of the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Conviction Integrity Unit.
The second day consisted of breakout sessions based on forensic discipline covering topics explaining technology used, expected advancements in technology, testing limitations, submission guidelines, how to qualify as an expert for court proceedings, Freedom of Information Act record requests and how to read laboratory reports.
“The topics covered at the conference came from questions we have received from our stakeholders,” said Jeff Nye, director of the MSP Forensic Science Division. “Forensic science is a critical component of the criminal justice system. The work performed in our laboratories provides objective evidence and facts to help solve crimes, exonerate the innocent and support reliable criminal justice outcomes. The more we work together and share perspectives, the better outcomes we can have.”
The MSP Forensic Science Division operates seven regional forensic laboratories that provide forensic services to law enforcement agencies and fire investigation units in 11 forensic specialties. Crime Scene Response Teams are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to document, process and collect evidence at crime scene locations statewide.
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Media Contact:
Lori Dougovito, MSP Communications and Outreach Division, 517-281-9586 or [email protected].
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