Sheila Whittington

A Seasoned Evidence Technician with over 26 years of experience in forensic and criminal investigation environments. Strong acumen in evidence collection, preservation, and documentation procedures. Exemplary expertise in managing complex crime scenes, coordinating with law enforcement and legal professionals, and ensuring the integrity and chain of custody of physical and digital evidence.

Skilled in the latest forensic technologies and laboratory techniques. A proven track record of aiding in the successful resolution of numerous high-profile cases. Committed to meticulous attention to detail and continuous professional development has consistently resulted in enhanced investigative processes and outcomes.

Central Evidence Specialist, Central Evidence Unit - Department of Forensic Sciences, District of Columbia - 401 E Street, SW-Washington, DC 20024

(2012-10)

Operated NCIC System | 1987 – 1990 | Metropolitan Police Department Cadet Program

• Manage and organize evidence records and documentation, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
• Coordinate with law enforcement and legal entities for evidence handling and processing.
• Implement and maintain evidence-tracking systems for efficient retrieval and storage.
• Oversee the preservation and storage of physical and digital evidence, adhering to legal standards.
• Conduct regular audits of evidence inventory to ensure compliance and integrity.
• Manage and maintain comprehensive evidence reports and records from various divisions including MPD, DFS, OCME, Fingerprint, Firearms, and Vehicle Intake Section.
• Handle the receipt of specimens for the DC Health Department, ensuring proper placement in bio-hazardous containers.
• Respond to and process requests from the US Attorney's Office for the release of trial-related property.
• Train and supervise junior staff in evidence-handling procedures and protocols.
• Liaise with forensic experts for specialized evidence analysis and interpretation.
• Respond to internal and external queries related to evidence status and availability.
• Prepare and present reports on evidence management activities and findings.
• Stay updated with advancements in evidence management technologies and practices.

Evidence Specialist - Department of Forensic Science

(2013)

• Collect, preserve, and document evidence from crime scenes or incidents.
• Catalog and store evidence in secure facilities, maintaining chain of custody records.
• Coordinate with law enforcement officers and investigators to process evidence.
• Utilize specialized equipment and techniques for handling and analyzing evidence.
• Testify in court regarding the handling and preservation of evidence.
• Conduct regular inventories and audits of stored evidence.
• Administer the documentation and archival of forensic evidence records, encompassing contributions from MPD, DFS, OCME, and specialized divisions such as Fingerprint Analysis, Firearms, and Vehicle Intake.
• Facilitate the secure handling and allocation of biological specimens from the Health Department, ensuring stringent compliance with bio-hazardous material protocols.
• Oversee and execute the procedural responses to requisitions from the US Attorneys' Office, pertaining to the judicial release of evidentiary assets.

Evidence Technician - Metropolitan Police Department

(1997 - 2013)

• Managed property records and evidence tracking systems for processing Metropolitan Police evidence.
• Categorized incoming evidence and property, including items for civil forfeiture, destruction, and impound.
• Coordinated loading and unloading of police district materials, maintaining property accountability.
• Operated in environments with hazardous chemicals and communicable diseases.
• Responded to citizen inquiries via phone regarding the location of personal property in the Metropolitan area.
• Carried out the daily cycle counts of warehouse inventory to verify location accuracy.

High School Diploma - Anacostia Senior High (1988)

Course - Criminal Justice - University of the District of Columbia (1990)