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Description
The main aim of the project is to improve the efficiency and qualification of forensic specialists through training and strengthening the capacity of forensic authorities (SP, SFSB, SCFME) as part of comprehensive forensic system reform, and to increase the quality of forensic facilities and mobility of site experts by providing them with specialised forensic vehicles and equipment. The project responds to the need of ensuring the continuity and availability of forensic expertise, as well as the deployment of modern technologies and innovative solutions to support the development of new methods of expertise. It will also provide for the establishment of an international model of practical cooperation among forensic experts, through bilateral cooperation with the NCIS and through joint hands-on training in the field of disaster victim identification (DVI) and three-dimensional (3D) scanning.
The main activities in the project include:
- training of forensic experts and site experts;
- developing and updating training content in cooperation with Donor State partners;
- upgrading of facilities, including updating of forensic expertise methods and acquiring specialised equipment;
- experience exchange visits in Latvia and Norway;
- upgrading the forensic vehicle fleet with specialised mechanical road vehicles and high-penetration (4x4 vehicles) vehicles with trailers and their equipment.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several critical issues and challenges within Latvia''s forensic system:
- weakened capacity of forensic authorities:
- the project sought to strengthen the capacity of key forensic authorities, including the State Police (SP), State Forensic Science Bureau (SFSB), and State Centre for Forensic Medical Examination (SCFME).
- need for modernization and innovation:
- there was a requirement to deploy modern technologies and innovative solutions to support the development of new forensic methods.
- ensuring continuity and availability of expertise:
- the project aimed to ensure the continuous availability of qualified forensic expertise.
- outdated forensic facilities and equipment:
- the project sought to upgrade forensic facilities and provide specialized vehicles and equipment to improve the mobility and effectiveness of site experts.
- lack of international cooperation and best practice exchange:
- there was a need to establish an international model of practical cooperation among forensic experts, particularly in specialized areas like disaster victim identification (DVI) and 3D scanning.
- need for updated training content:
- the need to modernize and update the training content for forensic experts.
The project undertook several key activities to enhance Latvia''s forensic capabilities:
- training and content development:
- training programs were implemented for both forensic experts and site experts.
- training content was developed and updated in collaboration with Norwegian partners.
- equipment upgrades:
- specialized equipment was acquired to modernize forensic expertise methods.
- vehicle fleet modernization:
- the forensic vehicle fleet was upgraded with specialized vehicles, including those suitable for challenging terrain.
- international collaboration:
- experience exchange visits were conducted in both Latvia and Norway.
- an international model of practical cooperation was established, focusing on disaster victim identification (DVI) and 3D scanning.
- joint hands-on training was conducted in DVI and 3D scanning with the Norwegian partner.
The project achieved several key results, impacting a variety of beneficiaries within Latvia''s forensic system. The following outcomes and impacts:
- enhanced forensic expertise:
- training programs improved the skills and qualifications of forensic specialists, leading to more accurate and efficient forensic investigations.
- updated training content ensured that experts were equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques.
- strengthened forensic authorities:
- upgraded equipment enhanced the capacity of the State Police (SP), State Forensic Science Bureau (SFSB), and State Centre for Forensic Medical Examination (SCFME).
- this strengthened the overall effectiveness of Latvia''s forensic system.
- modernized forensic capabilities:
- specialized vehicles and equipment enhanced the mobility and effectiveness of site experts.
- improved international cooperation:
- experience exchange visits and joint training with Norwegian partners fostered valuable knowledge sharing and collaboration.
- the establishment of an international model of practical cooperation improved expertise in specialized areas like DVI and 3D scanning.
- improved disaster victim identification:
- joint training on DVI improved the ability of the Latvian forensic teams to properly identify victims in a disaster situation.
- improved 3d scanning capabilities:
- joint training on 3d scanning improved the ability of the Latvian forensic teams to properly document crime scenes.
Beneficiaries:
- forensic specialists and site experts:
- they benefited from improved training, access to modern equipment, and enhanced collaboration opportunities.
- State Police, State Forensic Science Bureau, and State Centre for Forensic Medical Examination:
- these institutions benefited from purchased equipment, and improved staff capabilities.
- the Latvian legal system:
- improved forensic capabilities contributed to more accurate and efficient investigations, leading to a more just and effective legal system.
- Latvian society:
- citizens benefit from a more reliable and efficient forensic system, contributing to greater public safety and confidence in the justice system.
- victims of crime:
- improved forensic capabilities help to produce more accurate results, that help to bring justice to victims of crime.
Summary of bilateral results
Project focused on significantly upgrading Latvia''s forensic capabilities through a dynamic partnership with the Norwegian National Criminal Investigation Service. This collaboration went far beyond theoretical training, providing Latvian forensic experts with practical, hands-on experience in utilizing cutting-edge technologies like 3D scanning. They engaged in joint projects, working alongside Norwegian experts to develop and implement innovative forensic solutions directly into their daily operations.This deep collaboration resulted in a substantial enhancement of the competence and qualifications of Latvian forensic professionals, accompanied by the integration of modernized forensic methodologies. These advanced techniques will broaden the range of evidence analysis possible, enabling the utilization of more comprehensive databases for more accurate interpretation of findings. To further enhance international collaboration, standardized object inspection forms, designed for seamless use with experts from other countries, were developed.