When the state investigates someone and analyzes evidence in hopes of proving a crime, it will likely rely on results from a state-based crime lab. Given their capacities, some crime labs may have significant backlogs and other limitations that may delay the results of testing. Because of this, it may come as no surprise that more private crime labs are being established…by corporations.
According to a recent article published in the Atlantic, corporate entities such as Walmart, Target and American Express have created forensic labs in order to quickly root out causes of fraud and theft. In the past few years, these companies have dealt with their share of crimes, both real and virtual. By having their own in-house forensics lab, they can work faster than law enforcement in investigating crimes. Also, corporations have the financial wherewithal to keep pace with the constant updates necessary to protect against and resolve cybercrimes.
Because of this, there are growing relationships between law enforcement and corporations for these services. In fact, a 2012 press release showed that Target volunteers its services in homicides and other “special circumstance” cases.
But for those who are charged with or under investigation for a crime, it is critical to have a way to perform independent tests and uncover evidence that can be used in defending against criminal charges. Having superior technology that can quickly meet demands can mean the difference between criminal charges being defeated (or dismissed altogether) and a conviction and jail time.
If you have questions about gathering forensic evidence to defend against criminal charges, an experienced criminal defense attorney can advise you.