Are You Interested in Forensics?


We thought you may be interested in joining FACs! The Forensic Association of the Carolinas, is a new regional association to promote forensic awareness. International associate members welcome – receive our newsletter and conference/training updates from The Richmond Community College International Forensic Institute, IAI, NCIAI, SCIAI, FDIAI, and others!

Purpose:

The Forensic Association of the Carolinas was established to heighten awareness of forensic evidence and investigation for every level of response towards providing exemplary public service to our citizens when a crime occurs. From 911 Dispatch to the court room each individual’s involvement in understanding the value of forensic evidence is crucial to maximizing the potential of its recognition, identification, collection, preservation, and presentation. Each level of response is a spoke on the wheel of the criminal justice process. In pursuit of safe, happy communities, the Association strives to help educate and grow within a team approach.

The FACs Membership is diverse. Dispatch, First Responders, Emergency Medical, Hospital/Medical Personnel, Social Workers, Law Enforcement, Emergency Management, District Attorneys and Support Staff, Educators and Students working together is paramount to successful prosecution. FACs Membership also includes Community Leaders and Public Administrators who support the mission of FACs in service to the People.

The value of forensic evidence cannot be understated. Forensic education is crucial to the recognition, identification, collection, preservation, and presentation of all types of evidence. 

Vision:

Our vision is global. The increase in technological advances is positively correlated to the increase of new ways to commit crimes. While the crime of yester-year was concentrated within the boundaries of the many bedroom communities across America, today’s crime is dispersed world-wide. Thus, bridging inter-agency and inter-jurisdictional gaps from Dispatch to the Court Room is critical to the knowledge and evidence gathering process of criminal investigation.

Mission:

The mission of the Forensic Association of the Carolinas is to:

· Heighten Awareness of the value of Forensic Evidence from Dispatch to the Court Room

· Promote forensic education to all individuals who are connected forensic evidence towards the successful prosecution of criminal cases.

· Promote inter-agency partnerships

· Promote inter-jurisdictional partnerships world-wide

A Message from our First President

(2009-2010):

Hello Everyone,

My name is Bob Steele and I am proud to serve as the first President of the Forensic Association of the Carolinas.

I worked in the Coal Mines of West Virginia for 3 years. I then worked on the Railroad for 10 years as a trackman (which is a “fancy name for a laborer”), machine operator, and assistant foreman. I am 54 years old and can retire next year. I am in my 21^st year of law enforcement and the Detective Captain at Hamlet Police Department.

I entered law enforcement when I was 33 years old. I graduated first in my BLET class. Because of my late start, I always felt like I was behind in knowledge of the field. I consistently volunteered and pushed for any additional education. I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke Cum Laude with a BA degree in 1999. I hold a certificate from the Criminal Investigation Certificate program at the North Carolina Justice Academy. Since beginning my law enforcement career, I have completed over 2,000 hours of training in addition to college.

I am the Past President of the Blue Knights NC XX international law enforcement motorcycle organization, www.blueknightsxxnc.com.  We have a group of law enforcement that have RV’s we call ourselves the “Camping Cops.”  My wife bought me a Blue and Gold macaw for my 50^th birthday something I have wanted most of my life.  I have 2 sons, 2 stepsons and 3 grandchildren.

I was humbled to be elected president of our association.  I believe we have quality people in leadership positions and in the membership. My goal is to make a difference in service to our citizens. The title of President is worth nothing unless it is used to help the community.

In the short-term, I ask all of you to reach out to everyone in your communities, especially law enforcement officers to join our association. Secondly, I would encourage everyone to attend our classes at the Richmond Community College International Forensic Institute. Education helps all of us enhance our professionalism which trickles down through everything we do.

Thank you,
Bob Steele