Search

This article focuses on the operations of the laboratory section of the California State Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation. The Director of the Department is the Attorney General of California. Approximately 280 persons are employed in the Fingerprint, Record, Special Services, Investigation, and Laboratory sections of this Bureau. First established in 1905 by the State Legislature as a central depository for fingerprints, the Bureau was discontinued in 1909, due to the fact that no money was appropriated for its operation. In 1917 the State Legislature re-established the Bureau. The laboratory conducts examinations and comparisons of all types of physical evidence involved in criminal cases in the State of California, with the exception of questioned documents and latent fingerprints. A Polygraph Specialist is also attached to the Special Services Section of the Bureau, and a soundproof room is provided for the interrogation of persons suspected of having committed criminal offenses. The space devoted to the Laboratory Section consists of five rooms, having a total floor space of approximately 1200 square feet. These rooms include an office and library, evidence storage room, shop for glass blowing and tool work.