Student 'CSI' website is launched

Students can get an insight into the work of a CSI

A new website has been launched giving people a glimpse into the life of Isle of Man forensics experts.

The site, managed by the island's police force, includes information about DNA, fingerprint and footprint retrieval techniques.

It is aimed at giving students an insight into the work of the crime scene investigators, or CSIs.

This comes after a work placement scheme for students was stopped due to operational restrictions.

The website shows the photography and other equipment used by scenes of crime officers plus course links and suggested further reading.

Frequent requests

Det Sgt Grahame Bell compiled the material to give outsiders an insight into the forensic work and techniques used by island officers in a range of investigations.

He said: "The Isle of Man CSI department has, for a number of years, welcomed work experience and undergraduate students to visit in order to learn how a CSI department functions.

"Unfortunately it is no longer possible to offer this service, but the interest in this subject remains high and I frequently receive requests for attachments or information.

"As a result, I have written these webpages to provide a location where students and the public on the Isle of Man can go to get a flavour of what we do, and information on the science underlying the different disciplines."