City receives $40,000 in new forensics equipment

The Dexter Police Department just received some new computer equipment for its work in mobile forensics.

Lt. Det. Trevor Pulley, the department's computer forensics specialist and one of the only such specialists in southeast Missouri, was issued the equipment following a recent training exercise.

The training class took place in Hoover, Ala., and was a joint venture of the National Computer Forensics Institute and the U.S. Secret Service.

The two-week long course centered on mobile forensics, or the gathering of data from mobile phones--both working and otherwise.

After completing the course, the department was issued the equipment. In exchange, the city is required to perform the occasional job for the Secret Service.

Police Chief Sammy Stone spoke highly of Pulley's work and efforts to bring newer technology to the DPD.

"It helps us out tremendously," Stone said. "That computer lab was one of the best things in our recent renovation."

For training exercises like the most recent one, the cost to the city is very minimal. Stone said typically fuel for the drive is the only cost. Meals and hotel costs are all part of the program.

Stone said that the reach of Dexter's computer forensics department stretches far beyond the city's borders.

"We regularly work with departments from Perryville, Kennett, Jackson, Sikeston and many others," he said. "This is a real asset for all of southeast Missouri."

With this training exercise aimed at mobile phones, tablets and GPS units, it's one that Stone and Pulley both believe will be of value for years to come. Given the vast number of manufacturers, operating systems and device types, mobile forensics can be far more difficult than dealing with standard computers or laptops.

In today's world, mobile devices are used by nearly everyone. In fact, Pulley explained, there are now more mobile accounts than people in the United States.

While the majority of the cases in which mobile technology is involved are based on child pornography charges, this technology can now be used in any case. Whether it's an assault, murder or even a fraud case, it's always possible that Pulley could become involved in a case.

Pulley does extensive work with federal agencies--Secret Service, U.S. Customs and the FBI to name a few.

Pulley said in the first quarter of 2014, the department has already analyzed more than 50 phones. That number continues to increase rapidly each year.

Pulley was quick to compliment the federal agencies with which he works--noting that they are always willing to lend a hand when needed. Pulley assists them throughout the region.

The Dexter Police Department has an impressive array of forensics equipment allowing them to work on virtually any device that might be presented--mobile or otherwise.

Stone said the department is always willing to send Pulley to this type of training exercises because he believes it is a solid investment in the community and region.

"They're funded almost entirely through grants and other programs," he said. "Aside from licensing updates, the city is out very little. The improvements are definitely worth the cost."

cnoles@dailystatesman.com