Experts from the Odesa District Police Department No. 1 hosted an engaging and educational event for students at a local school, where they learned how police solve crimes and even participated in a mock «investigation».
The specialists explained that a forensic scientist's work begins with a thorough examination of the crime scene. The success of finding crime evidence relies on their attentiveness. The police demonstrated how to use special kits stored in forensic suitcases.
«Inside these suitcases are dozens of tools, each with its own purpose. For instance, fingerprint kits help identify who touched certain objects. Powders and brushes make these prints visible, which can then be transferred onto a special film. Ultraviolet lamps help detect evidence invisible to the naked eye, such as droplets of biological fluids. Magnifying glasses and tweezers are necessary for the careful collection of small evidence like hair and fabric fibers. Special bags ensure proper storage of physical evidence for laboratory examination,» shared Major Police Officer Zhanna Novakivska, a senior forensic specialist.
After the theoretical part, the students moved on to practical exercises. They donned protective suits, gloves, and shoe covers to avoid leaving their own traces and attempted to «collect evidence» themselves. The children examined objects through magnifying glasses, took fingerprints from each other, worked with powders, and even created their own mock crime scenes, inventing a «crime scenario».
In turn, the police assisted and explained each step — how to properly photograph findings, how to record information in reports, and why it is crucial to preserve the integrity of evidence.
This interactive event not only introduced teenagers to the work of forensic scientists but also highlighted how this profession demands precision, analytical thinking, and accountability.
At the end of the meeting, law enforcement invited high school students to consider joining the police force in the future, particularly in the forensic division. These specialists are essential in uncovering the truth, apprehending criminals, and restoring justice — no investigation is complete without the work of forensic experts.
