Digital Evidence Collection in the field: Statement of Need

Proposal for Enhancing Digital Evidence Collection in the Field

Background:
Currently, the agency primary utilizes lab based digital forensic tools. These tools are highly effective for extracting and analyzing digital evidence from mobile devices. However, a critical gap exists in field operations where devices cannot be transported to the lab due to legal, logistical, or operational constraints.

Problem Statement:
How much evidence is being missed in the field because mobile devices cannot be brought into the lab for extraction? Without an efficient field-based solution, investigators may lose access to critical evidence such as:

  • Time-sensitive data (e.g., live location, messages that auto-delete)
  • Deleted or hidden content that may degrade over time
  • On-scene intelligence that could inform immediate investigative actions

Impact on Investigations:

  • Loss of crucial evidence that could strengthen cases.
  • Delayed evidence collection impacting the ability to act on leads.
  • Reduced operational efficiency, requiring unnecessary transport and delaying case resolution.
  • Legal risks associated with the potential loss of data that could have been preserved if extracted in the field.

Recommended Solution:
To bridge this gap, the agency should consider implementing portable digital forensic tools that allow for rapid data extraction on-scene. Potential solutions include:

  • DATAPILOT X – A portable tool enabling a team to quickly acquire critical evidence in the field—without taking devices away from victims, witnesses, or suspects: helping to speed up the process of your investigations while maintaining legal compliance and chain of custody.

Implementation Considerations:

  • Legal Compliance: Ensure that field extractions align with search warrant requirements and digital privacy laws.
  • Training & Deployment: Field investigators should receive specialized training to handle these tools effectively.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: Compare the investment against the potential loss of critical evidence.

Conclusion:
Enhancing the agency’s digital forensic capabilities with portable solutions will close the evidence collection gap in the field. Implementing this recommendation will lead to stronger cases, faster investigations, and better overall operational effectiveness.