This article discusses the ASCLD Accreditation initiative of the American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD) and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence at RTI International (RTI).
In 2019, the American Society of Crime Lab Directors (ASCLD) and the Forensic Technology Center of Excellence at RTI International (RTI) launched the ASCLD Accreditation Initiative, which provides training and technical assistance to crime laboratories seeking accreditation. Obtaining a certificate of accreditation means that a lab has proven its commitment to recognized quality management principles such as documented training, systematic review, and corrective action. These principles not only lead to improvements in forensic services but also enhance the health of the entire organization over time. Crime labs, also known as forensic science service providers (FSSPs), work with law enforcement to investigate crime scenes and collect evidence for investigations. To date, 10 police-run crime labs have achieved accreditation through the ASCLD Initiative in disciplines such as latent prints, crime scene investigation, firearms and toolmarks, serial number restoration, digital and video imaging technology and analysis, and body fluid identification. These success stories include police labs in Boise, Idaho, and Salt Lake City, Utah.