Forensics Unit
Crime Scene Forensics Unit
Lt. Michael Knapp
Crime Scene
Commander
Casie Banyi
Crime Scene
Investigator
Richard Ingram
Crime Scene
Investigator
Supporting our detectives and road patrol division are three crime scene specialists. These investigators take on various roles including responding to crime scenes to locate, process, and analyze evidence through comprehensive scene documentation, photography, and 3D laser scanning. To help with these various roles the Forensic Section utilizes a Crime Scene Response truck. The Sheriff’s Office maintains a fully equipped forensic laboratory that includes specialized chambers, alternate light sources, chemical enhancements, and a garage bay for vehicle processing. Within that lab, collected evidence is analyzed to determine if further testing is required. This meticulous approach ensures that evidence is preserved and utilized to its fullest potential. The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office also assists other agencies in crime scene processing and training.
Personnel Training
Crime Scene Investigators receive specialized training in:
- Blood pattern analysis
- Impression evidence
- Crime scene reconstruction
- Evidence handling and processing
- Photography
- Shooting Trajectory analysis
- …as well as other specialized disciplines
Digital Forensics Unit
In response to the growing role of technology in crime, the Sheriff’s Office has developed a state-of-the-art digital forensics laboratory operated by two sworn detectives. This unit processes digital evidence from a wide range of crimes and supports agencies across the state. We are proud to work alongside the West Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and the FBI/WV Cyber Crimes Task Force in these efforts.
