NCJ Number
200794
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 30 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2003 Pages: 22-23,26,30
Editor(s)
Ronnie Garrett
Date Published
June 2003
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the assistance provided to law enforcement agencies in underwater searches and investigations by mission specialists with the Trident Foundation of Fort Collins, CO.
Abstract
Crime scenes are not always readily located and easily accessible. An aquatic crime scene environment offers additional challenges for sub-surface investigators. Underwater investigations require extensive equipment and highly skilled personnel in the recovery of both evidence and victims. Meeting the challenges of an underwater investigation may be too much for many law enforcement agencies. The nonprofit Trident Foundation of Fort Collins, CO, has been called upon by both small and large agencies to assist with underwater searches and investigations. Trident has organized an elite group of mission specialists, who can perform successful underwater missions. Mission specialists are recruited from public safety agencies across the United States. Trident uses the latest in high-tech techniques and equipment and highly qualified personnel. This article examines Trident’s capabilities in five different underwater investigative missions: aircraft recovery, swift water, vehicle recovery, hazmat material, and a murder investigation through thick ice. It is crucial that each team of divers receive proper training and equipment for each scenario encountered. Trained investigators on land or water need to be well versed in the challenges they may encounter and capable of collecting the evidence in a manner that meets the rigid standards required by today’s court system.