PEI RCMP now has two members with the highly specialized designation of Forensic Identification Specialist.
Cst. Steve MacDonnell of East Prince District detachment passed his certification board examination earlier this year. He was formally presented with his official certification in a small ceremony at PEI RCMP Headquarters on July 5, 2021. He joins Cpl. Shawn Brown, who is also certified in PEI RCMP's Forensic Identification Services
"Just about every criminal investigation needs forensic services – everything from gathering fingerprints, to processing crime scene photos and videos," says Cst. MacDonnell. "I'm excited to have this level of expertise, and to stay in PEI to do this important work."
Cst. MacDonnell worked as a Forensic Technician with the Canadian Military, before joining the RCMP in 2009. He began his training as a Forensic Identification Specialist with the RCMP in PEI in 2016. This included an intense selection process and aptitude testing, as well as a two-month course at the Canadian Policing College in Ottawa. The RCMP also requires an apprenticeship for a minimum of 18-months, as well as administering a rigorous certification board exam.
"Cst. MacDonnell's certification is another example of the quality of our specialised policing services, and the range of specialized skills we have among our police officers," says Chief Superintendent Jennifer Ebert, Commanding Officer of P.E.I. RCMP. "I am very proud of his achievement, and I look forward to his continued contributions to the service we provide to Islanders."
The RCMP has close to two hundred forensic specialists working across the country.