Sept. 20 to 26 is National Forensic Science Week

SAN DIEGO – National Forensic Science Week recognizes the crucial role of forensic science in the criminal justice system and celebrates the professionals who provide the services that have become critical tools for investigators.

It is the science that connects the dots in cases to bring justice to victims, provide proof of guilt or innocence and protect the people of San Diego County.

The San Diego Sheriff's Department Regional Crime Laboratory in Kearny Mesa opened in 2018. It is a state-of-the-art facility designed and built to lower the use of water, energy and other resources, as well as reduce waste to lessen the impact on the environment.

There are nearly 80 professional staff members providing services in 14 forensic disciplines to the Sheriff's Department and more than 30 other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in the county.

The Sheriff's Crime Lab is inspected every year to evaluate compliance to nearly 400 quality standards. These national and international accreditations ensure the work of the lab remains at a very high quality. The lab also maintains databases that assist in identifying people or linking of cases.

To take a virtual tour of the Sheriff's Department Regional Crime Laboratory, go to https://vimeo.com/459571272.

Students are encouraged to participate in a three-part virtual series event. Forensic experts will offer behind-the-scenes accounts of how their real-life work in forensic science compares to depictions on popular TV shows. To sign up for the virtual event, visit http://www.sdsheriff.net.

Submitted by San Diego County Sheriff's Department.