What makes up the New Mexico Department of Public Safety? Part II

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  3. What makes up the New Mexico Department of Public Safety? Part II

Today we continue to explore the different divisions and units that makes up the New Mexico Department of Public Safety.  In our first part of this series we explored the Law Enforcement Academy.  This time we look into the Technical Support Division which includes the Forensic Laboratory Bureau and the Law Enforcement Records Bureau, which includes the Missing Persons Clearinghouse. 

The Forensics Laboratory Bureau delivers cutting-edge forensic analysis to nearly 300 law enforcement agencies across New Mexico, free of charge. Our scientists at the three labs in Santa Fe, Hobbs and Las Cruces bring forensic science expertise to the courtroom, ensuring justice is backed by evidence. Disciplines include:

  • DNA / Biology – Identify individuals through forensic DNA analysis.
  • Controlled Substances – Analyze and confirm illegal drugs and drug analogs.
  • Firearms & Toolmarks – Microscopically identify firearms and tools to evidence left at a scene.
  • Latent Prints – Develop and compare fingerprints to identify an individual.

 Trusted. Accurate. Unbiased. From crime scene to courthouse, we apply science in the forensic laboratory with integrity to keep New Mexico safe.

Another part of the Technical Support Division is the Law Enforcement Records Bureau which includes the Missing Persons Clearinghouse.  This unit keeps New Mexicans informed and safe by:

  • Posting active missing persons cases on the public website
  • Coordinating with Federal, State, Tribal, and Local law enforcement and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
  • Releasing Amber, Silver, Brittany, Turquoise and Missing Endangered Alerts
  • Ensuring quality control of National Crime Information Center records, verifying that every missing person entry is accurate and timely

 A person can be reported missing at any time, regardless of age, when their safety is believed to be at risk. Timely alerts. Accurate information. Lifesaving action.

 The Law Enforcement Records Bureau also oversees: 

  1. Sex Offender Registration unit
  2. Concealed Carry unit
  3. National Crime Information Center unit
  4. The Inspection of Public Records (process more than 15,000~ Inspection of Public Records Act annually)
  5. Expungement unit
  6. Automated Fingerprinting Information Systems unit

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