Official Web Site of the City of Phoenix

1. IS A CRIME SCENE SPECIALIST SUBJECTED TO GRAPHIC AND UNPLEASENT CRIME SCENES?
Crime Scene Specialists go to many disturbing crime scenes that could contain graphic displays of violence, hazardous living conditions, and may come into contact with various bodily fluids. Although all crime scenes are serious in nature, often crime scenes with children or the elderly can be challenging.

2. IS YOUR JOB LIKE CSI ON TV?
In general the concept of crime scene investigation is similar to what is portrayed on television, however the differences are many.  The job requires Crime Scene Specialists to get dirty, work in uncomfortable conditions such as extreme weather, maneuver in small spaces and be subjected to unsanitary locations. Many hours of work from multiple facets are needed in order to solve a case which is not as simplistic as television leads you to believe. 

3. DO YOU ENJOY YOUR CAREER CHOICE AS A CRIME SCENE SPECIALIST?
If you enjoy the work you do, you gain a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in knowing that your hard work, determination and eye for detail can contributes to solving crimes.

4. WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF YOUR JOB?
The most difficult part of being a Crime Scene Specialist is different for everyone, however dealing with crime scenes may be mentally and physically draining at times.

5. WHAT KIND OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE DO YOU NEED TO BECOME A CRIME SCENE SPECIALIST?
A Bachelor's Degree in science and/or, criminal justice or a related field is required. In addition photography experience is an asset.  Combinations of education and experience can be substituted.

6. DO JURY MEMBERS HAVE UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS RELATED TO CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATIONS?
Jury members tend to think that crime scene investigations processes are similar to what they might experience viewing popular television shows. It is important during testimony to explain to jury members exactly what processes are available and what they entail.
           
7. WHAT IS THE LONGEST PERIOD OF TIME YOU HAVE SPENT ON ONE CRIME SCENE?
There is no set time for processing a crime scene.  Due to the nature and complexity of each scene processing can be completed in as quickly as thirty minutes and some can extend over a couple of days.

8. DO YOU GO TO THE MORGUE?
Part of our job duties is to respond to the Forensic Science Center.  Duties may include
fingerprinting the deceased, collecting evidence, and attending autopsies.

9. DO YOU HAVE TO BE A SWORN POLICE OFFICER TO BECOME A CRIME SCENE SPECIALIST?
We are civilian personnel, but follow police procedures and protocols. We are not sworn   officers and do not carry a weapon on duty.

10. DO YOU ATTEND A FORMALIZED TRAINING ACADEMY TO BECOME A CRIME SCENE SPECIALIST?
Most new hires will go through a six week Crime Scene Specialist academy which entails classroom learning as well as hands on practicals.  After successfully completing the training the Crime Scene Specialist will be assigned to a senior specialist for approximately eight weeks.