Forensic Locksmith Training

Forensic locksmiths can help the police with crime scene investigations.

Television shows like the "CSI" series and "Bones" have introduced a new fan base to the world of forensics. Forensic locksmithing is a sub-career of forensics that is lesser known to the masses, but still quite valuable to communities. Forensic locksmiths go through extensive training and examinations before becoming "certified."

Significance

Forensic locksmithing is defined by Don Shiles, former president of the International Association of Investigative Locksmiths, as the " study and systematic examination of a lock or other security device or associated equipment using scientific methods to determine if and how the device was opened, neutralized or bypassed." Techniques used include physical disassembly, microscopic examination and photography, with an occasional lab visit to have further research conducted.

History

Procedures and techniques used today by forensic locksmiths are credited to Art Paholke. While working in the crime lab for the Chicago Police Department in the 1970s, Paholke would test various method of entry for keys, safes and locks. Examining the consequences of the "attacks," he would determine how it would provide evidence to help in investigations.

Function

Forensic locksmiths don't have one set area of expertise, according to an article on LocksmithLedger.com. They are asked to work with anything from general mechanical locks and locking mechanisms, which are similar to those found on a locker or a storage unit. They may also be called to examine a crime scene or vehicle for evidence like if a safe has been burglarized or a car was stolen.

Considerations

Certification is needed for consideration as a certified forensic locksmith (CFL). According to the International Association of Investigative Locksmiths (IAIL), you need to take classes like impressions, picking, forensic locksmithing and investigative locksmithing (to name a few). Following the passing of your courses, there are written and oral examinations. You also need to have a full criminal history screening to be considered a CFL. You can only be certified through the IAIL. You are also required to recertify every three years with the IAIL.

Contact

A detailed listing of points assessed and an application can only be requested by contacting IAIL at this address:

International Association of Investigative Locksmiths
1507 Whitmarsh Circle
Severn, MD 21144

References

• Lock Picking Forensics: Forensic Locksmithing
• International Association of Forensic Locksmithing: Certification
• Locksmith Ledger: Varied Specialties For Forensic Locksmiths

Resources

• "Pursuit Magazine": Forensic Locksmithing