Description:

Is responsible for maintaining the evidentiary chain of custody, safekeeping, and maintaining all digital and physical evidence collected and stored at the Paducah Police Department.  The Evidence Technician assists in receiving and processing evidence and material relating to various police investigations and cases; types related reports; answers telephone; assists with and completes chain of custody documentation; and prepares for and attends court hearings.   

Illustrative Duties: 

• Processes evidence and records data utilizing evidence software to maintain chain of custody records.
• Serves as a backup for the Senior Evidence Technician regarding open records requests and their processing.
• Serves as a backup for the Senior Evidence Technician regarding any evidentiary reporting or processing.
• Prepares evidence for court hearings.  Ensures all related documents and reports are completed.  Transports evidence to prosecuting attorneys.
• Assists with and logs in and out evidence including, but not limited to, money, drugs and paraphernalia, weapons, alcohol, body fluids and tissue, etc.  
• Ensures compliance with internal policy, state and local laws, and court orders regarding evidence storage, disbursement, and destruction. Ensures that chain of custody is maintained for evidence.
• Responsible for the destruction of drugs or other evidence.  
• Assists the public and answers questions relating to evidence collection and disbursement.
• Testifies in District and/or Circuit court.
• Prepares weapons for transport to Kentucky State Police at Frankfort, KY, for destruction or auction.
• Prepares and/or transports evidence to various state labs.
• Place vehicles in the secure area of the garage (subject to call-out).
• Utilizes bookkeeping practices to receive, document, and forward evidence money to the City Finance Department.  Ensures required documentation is presented for disbursement of evidence money.
• Is responsible for ensuring up-to-date evidence processing and laboratory submission procedures as outlined by the Kentucky State Police Lab.
• Researches and maintains statutorily required guidelines for evidence retention and destruction.
• Prepare docket lists sent by Commonwealth and County Attorneys.
• Takes monies booked into Evidence to bank for security purposes.
• Returns the property to owners, etc.
• Proactively researches cases for evidence disposal.
• Maintains Evidence Room in a clean/orderly manner.
• Responsible for bicycles and vehicles impounded.
• Prepares items for online auctions throughout the year. (forfeited and unclaimed properties).
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

Qualifications:

Associate’s degree in law enforcement-, business- or office administration-related field; two (2) years of experience in the administrative, legal, or clerical field; or equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that evidences a thorough knowledge of data entry, filing systems and general office and bookkeeping practices as it relates to evidence storage and management.  Ability to learn and develop a knowledge base related to evidence storage and matters relating to the chain of custody for evidence. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of general office and bookkeeping practices and procedures. Knowledge of matters related to evidence storage and chain of custody. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and speech; develop and maintain effective working relationships with associates, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, and the general public; prepare and maintain accurate documentation and related files.  Must possess excellent interpersonal communication skills and excellent organizational skills.

Physical Requirements:
Requires the ability to operate a computer keyboard and lift light to moderately heavy boxes and material.  Must maintain the physical ability to successfully pass the Essential Job Function test for the position.