Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base
APO AE 09348

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Release No. 091121-01
Nov. 21, 2009
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DSN:  318-852-8742
Maj. Bob Owen

Judges Get First-Hand Look at Forensics Evidence Lab

BAGHDAD – Judges and prosecutors from the Ministry of Interior cassation court and the Ministry of Defense court toured the Baghdad Police College forensics lab here Nov. 19.

This visit, coordinated through the Iraq Training and Advisory Mission-Rule of Law directorate, showcased the capabilities of the forensics lab to the judges and prosecutors. The purpose was to educate them on new evidence collection and analysis techniques. 

The judges and prosecutors received vital information that will assist in the judges making decisions in their court rooms based on evidence instead of confessions.

The High Institute forensics lab demonstrated to the judges each of the main disciplines, including, DNA analysis, advanced firearms microscopy, fingerprint analysis and document analysis.  The judges spoke with the lab technicians and provided real-world examples of what types of criminal cases they are currently facing. 

An MoI judge said that after viewing the lab and seeing the level of professionalism that the lab staff and officers of the High Institute have demonstrated, he was “very proud” of the important work that the MoI was doing in this field. He said he understands that in order for Iraq to move forward in the area of justice and rule of law, that the forensics capability of Iraq will play a large part of that success.

This was the first time that judges have visited the forensics lab at the BPC.

The ITAM-Rule of Law directorate works hand in hand with Iraqi judges, prosecutors, law-makers, defense attorneys and others involved in professionalizing the Iraqi court systems and judicial processes.

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