FSU identifies perpetrators through analysis of evidence left at a crime scene. Whenever a perpetrator of a crime comes into contact with a scene he/she will bring something into the scene and leave with something from the scene. This is often referred to as “trace evidence”. This may include fingerprints, palm prints, footwear impressions, hair, blood, saliva, semen, fibers, soil, tool and tire marks, and so forth. FSU members are trained in identifying and collecting items which may be suitable for DNA analysis by the Centre of Forensic Sciences, Toronto, Ontario.

Depending on the evidence involved, FSU members will gather and analyze various materials using the most appropriate scientific techniques. Duties include crime scene photography, bloodstain pattern analysis, attending post mortems, examining vehicles, creating scale diagrams and composite drawings. In their work, members of FSU will use databases like AFIS (Automated Fingerprint Identification System), NDDB (National DNA Data Bank) and a digital mugshot system to help determine the identity of a perpetrator. They may also create reenactments of the crime through still photography and/or video. FSU members will utilize various photography software programs to enhance photographs to assist the courts in visualizing the evidence.

Assigned to the FSU is a Forensic Video Analyst who is responsible for collecting and preserving video evidence (analogue/digital) found at crime scenes, then processing the video and/or audio-based evidence through the use of digital forensic video processing equipment. The Analyst will enhance the crime scene video for the purpose of assisting investigators in developing evidence and suspect information.