Computer Forensics Analysis for Major Crime and Asset Forfeiture Investigations

The Recovery Act Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive Grant Program (Byrne Competitive Program) will help communities improve the capacity of state and local justice systems and provide for national support efforts including training and technical assistance programs strategically targeted to address local needs. This competitive grant announcement focuses on initiatives in eight areas: 1) preventing and reducing violent crime through community-based data-driven approaches; 2) providing funding for neighborhood-based probation and parole officers; 3) reducing mortgage fraud and crime related to vacant properties; 4) hiring of civilian support personnel in law enforcement (training staff, analysts, dispatchers, etc.); 5) enhancing forensic and crime scene investigations; 6) improving resources and services for victims of crime; 7) supporting problem-solving courts; and 8) national training and technical assistance partnerships.

Under category 5, the city of Minneapolis will use the grant award to expand existing computer forensic investigation capabilities within the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) Computer Forensics Section. The program goals are to: increase procurement of digital media evidence instrumental in proving criminal activities; increase procurement of digital media evidence instrumental in identifying financial assets and demonstrating their derivation from criminal activity and/or criminal enterprise; provide additional prosecutorial examination of cases with substantial digital evidence and documentation in regard to issuance of criminal charges, case preparation, and criminal prosecution; disrupt and dismantle criminal enterprises and organizations related to, or operating in, the Minneapolis area; and reduce violent crimes such as homicide, aggravated assaults, robbery, and child pornography which are typically attendant to narcotics trafficking and criminal enterprise.

CA/NCF