Evidence Technician

CITY OF MANCHESTER•Manchester, TN

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Evidence Custodian is responsible for the intake, storage, documentation, security, and disposition of all physical and digital evidence submitted to the Manchester Police Department. This includes managing body-worn camera (BWC) footage, in-car video, surveillance video, digital files, and forensic data. The position ensures evidence integrity, chain of custody, and compliance with department policies, state law, and court requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.
Experience handling physical or digital evidence in a law-enforcement environment preferred.
Knowledge of criminal justice procedures, chain-of-custody requirements, and evidence handling laws.
Familiarity with BWC systems, in-car video systems, and digital forensics platforms.
Ability to redact video and audio files using approved software tools.
High attention to detail, strong record-keeping skills, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Proficiency with evidence management software and general computer applications.
Ability to lift and handle evidence up to approximately 50 pounds.
Periods of standing, bending, and walking.
Occasional exposure to hazardous materials, biohazards, weapons, or digital equipment.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.
Experience handling physical or digital evidence in a law-enforcement environment preferred.

Responsibilities

Evidence Intake: Receive and log all physical and digital evidence, including Body worn Camera (BWC) footage, in-car video, mobile device extractions, photos, audio recordings, and electronic uploads.
Verify proper labeling, packaging, and documentation for all submitted items.
Assign tracking numbers and enter all information into the evidence management system.
Import or transfer body worn camera (BWC) and in-car video footage into approved evidence platforms and ensure proper retention categories are applied.
Digital Evidence Management: Manage all digital evidence repositories, including BWC systems, in-car video systems, digital drop portals, forensic software outputs, and secure servers.
Download, export, and prepare videos or digital files for investigators, prosecutors, and authorized personnel.
Create copies of digital evidence—such as video files—onto thumb drives or other approved media for the District Attorney’s Office.
Perform video redactions when required, including blurring faces, removing sensitive audio, and editing restricted content according to legal and departmental standards.
Maintain digital audit trails to ensure chain-of-custody integrity for all electronic files.
Evidence Storage and Security: Store physical evidence in secure, access-controlled locations and digital evidence in approved, access-restricted systems.
Maintain strict chain of custody at all times.
Conduct regular audits of both physical property and digital systems to ensure compliance and accountability.
Follow all safety, legal, and cybersecurity protocols for biological, hazardous, and digital materials.
Court Preparation: Locate, organize, and prepare both physical and digital evidence for court, including digital exports, video clips, or audio files.
Release evidence to authorized legal personnel while documenting all transfers.
Prepare BWC footage, in-car video, and other digital media in court-compatible formats.
Testify as needed regarding handling, storage, and chain of custody.
Evidence Disposition and Destruction: Review completed cases for authorization to dispose of physical and digital evidence.
Coordinate lawful return of property to owners when permitted.
Perform and document destruction of evidence, including secure digital deletion or wiping of video files, digital media, and electronic records.
Maintain accurate destruction logs for compliance and audit purposes.
Administrative Duties: Maintain detailed records, reports, and databases for all evidence types.
Update and maintain policies regarding evidence handling, digital evidence procedures, and retention schedules.
Assist with internal and external audits, inspections, and compliance checks.