A testament to its ability to blend seamlessly into the County Operations Center, the combined Investigations, Crime Lab, Property and Evidence building feels as if it has always been a part of the campus fabric, while also standing prominently as a renewed symbol of the County’s commitment to make San Diego the safest urban county in the nation.

Due to the evolution of forensic science, adaptability is of utmost importance. The laboratory plan is highly modular, allowing for significant flexibility and accessibility that can respond to future forensic technologies or diverse staffing needs. Casework and even the ductwork is modular creating a flexible and integrated solution.

The crime lab achieved LEED Gold certification.

Hamilton County was overdue for a new forensics facility to serve the citizens of this populous Ohio county that includes the Cincinnati metro area. Not only did the county need to replace its outdated and undersized laboratories, but it wanted to build a comprehensive facility that would incorporate the full array of forensics functions that fall under the auspices of the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office.

The Crime Laboratory contains six sections including Serology/DNA, Controlled Substances, Firearms/Toolmarks, Trace Evidence, Toxicology, and Latent Prints. The facility has secured evidence receiving, processing, and storage area. An on-site firing range supports ballistic analysis.

Modern office, conferencing, and collaboration space are provided for the coroner, lab, and administrative staff. Training and outreach are focus points of the facility, supported by a 150-person flexible auditorium/ training center. The facility showcases newly established sustainability goals of the County, and is LEED certified.

Economy of material and efficient planning allow evidence processing and analysis to be performed efficiently while giving staff an inspiring and collaborative work environment.

Located in Englewood, Colorado, the crime lab is situated in a new master planned development, the building is oriented to address entry to the site with the transparent and accessible office wing. The Lobby divides the office and lab wing. The Lobby provides a welcoming but secure visitor entry from the south and equally welcoming staff entry from the north through the employee break area.

The open labs of the forensic wing are arranged along a glazed central corridor allowing for unimpeded views through the building while allowing for educational tours to occur in the corridor. A law enforcement training room and central evidence processing programs are also housed in this mission-driven asset of the community. The facility achieved LEED Certification.