Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation

DCI Special Agent Reger believes major advances in technology, including the use of Artificial Intelligence, could play a key role in finally solving a 12-year-old case.

“You’re able to do things with it now that you might not have been able to do 12-years ago. And, that should cause anybody that’s watching this that thinks, ‘Hey, I’m smarter than law enforcement investigators,’ to simply know that time has a way for revealing what’s true. That’s just what time does.”

https://www.kwwl.com/news/investigators-use-ai-to-help-in-the-lyric-elizabeth-12-year-investigation---memorial/article_2f9806e8-40bd-11ef-b343-e7e32782de64.html?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3-ka-MSyC5br8msJLE0w-0eYFrT286nhPI8gVPC54rn7YBKwYo3o0qrSI_aem_IEYsfEqdu6PQeL7_scqOBQ

Investigators use AI to help in the Lyric & Elizabeth 12-Year Investigation---Memorial Ride & Drive Saturday in Evansdale EVANSDALE, Iowa (KWWL)

Ever wondered about the meticulous work that goes on behind the scenes to solve crimes? Our DCI Crime Lab in Ankeny is at the forefront of this important work, using cutting-edge technology to analyze evidence. 🔬

📺 A recent news story from Iowa's News Now takes you inside our lab, where over 8,000 DNA samples are stored—each with the potential to crack open unsolved cases across Iowa.

From simple drug cases to intricate homicides, each piece of evidence undergoes rigorous testing with state-of-the-art equipment. As DCI Lab Administrator Paul Hermsen explains, we've evolved from pen and paper to complex computer systems, tracking every result and piece of evidence. 🧬

Watch the full story: https://cbs2iowa.com/news/local/iowa-dci-division-of-criminal-investigation-holds-8000-dna-samples-lab-aiming-for-zero-error-crime-solving-cold-cases-unsolved-forensics-mike-halverson?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR35Jbu5_TA89vThqqErbcPYqTp2pO8hwfbsSuSxW9bQEErNuuQjFprJ3y4_aem_GPs5IAyr6cQTL6bxSSln2g

Iowa DCI holds 8,000 DNA samples aiming for zero-error crime solving There are 8,000 individual DNA samples stored inside the building of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation in Ankeny.That means there are 8,000 people wit

Today, a Dickinson County jury found Kyle Ricke guilty of Murder in the First Degree in the shooting death of Algona Police Officer Kevin Cram. The jury's deliberation was swift.

This successful prosecution is a testament to the dedication, diligence, and professionalism of all who tirelessly pursued justice on Officer Cram’s behalf.

Our hearts continue to be with Officer Cram's family, friends, and the entire Algona community.

Ready to dive into a career that’s as thrilling as it is rewarding? Our DCI Crime Lab is hiring a Forensic Science Technician! 🔬

As a Forensic Science Technician, you'll work in our Fi****ms Section, conduct function testing on fi****ms, manage crime scene photography, and contribute to a national database. This role is perfect for those with an eye for detail. 👁️‍🗨️

Qualifications:

- Associate's degree (or higher) in lab technology, chemistry, biology, physics, or related scientific field

- Willingness to undergo training and travel for specialized classes

- Strong physical stamina for frequent lifting and moving

Why Join Iowa DPS?

- Be part of a mission-driven team providing essential forensic support to the criminal justice community

- Engage in meaningful work that has real-world impact

- Receive on-site training and continuous professional development

🌟 Apply now: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/iowa/jobs/4572421/forensic-science-technician-fi****ms-and-photography

You can keep up with more DCI and Iowa Department of Public Safety jobs by following Iowa DPS on LinkedIn!

At DPS, excellence is the standard. Earlier this year, our DCI Crime Lab in Ankeny was one of only 16 forensic labs, out of 211 submissions, to receive the 2023 Foresight Maximus Award from the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD), a distinction recognizing the top performing forensic labs in the world. 🥼

“The recipients of the 2023 Foresight Maximus Award have not merely excelled; they have anticipated, adapted, and exceeded expectations in a world of ever-evolving challenges”, said ASCLD President Timothy Kupferschmid. “These sixteen laboratories stand as beacons of innovation and efficiency, representing the very best in forensic science laboratories."

We are incredibly proud of the dedicated DCI Lab employees who helped make this achievement a reality!

🎆 Happy , Iowa! 🎆

Whether you're watching fireworks, hosting a barbecue, or enjoying time with loved ones, our dedicated officers, agents and DPS employees are committed to keeping you safe.

Celebrate responsibly, and remember to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that make our freedom possible.

To observe Independence Day, we will be out of office tomorrow. Remember to celebrate safely!

Congratulations, Dawn! Enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

Help us in celebrating the retirement of Dawn Beisner, who devoted 27 years of service to the State of Iowa! Dawn's creativity significantly influenced various divisions within the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

Please join us in expressing our sincere gratitude to Dawn by offering a heartfelt THANK YOU for her numerous contributions over the years!

When the sun stays up a little longer, so do we! Whether we're investigating crimes, finding missing persons, or supporting local law enforcement, Iowa DCI is always in action. 🌞🔍 Happy !

On June 19, 1865, in the aftermath of the Civil War, enslaved people were declared free under the terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation. Today, DCI and the Iowa Department of Public Safety honor and recognize the anniversary of this important day in American history.

Happy Father's Day!

Today, we honor and celebrate all the incredible fathers and father figures who serve in Iowa DPS. Your dedication and bravery not only keep our communities safe but also set a powerful example of strength, commitment, and compassion for your families and all Iowans.

Your sacrifice and service are deeply appreciated. We wish you a day filled with love, joy, and special moments with your loved ones.

Happy Father's Day! 🚔👨‍👧‍👦🚨



Iowa State Patrol | Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation | Iowa State Fire Marshal

*** UPDATE *** The Amber Alert for Ophelia Anne Barton has been cancelled as she has been found safe. Thank you for your help in locating her.

The Iowa City Police Department needs your help to find an endangered child.

Ophelia Anne Barton is 15-year-old. She is 5 feet tall and weighs around 80 pounds. She has brown hair that reaches her shoulders and hazel eyes. When last seen, she was wearing a Disney short-sleeve shirt and red shorts.

Ophelia was taken by 42-year-old Lindsey Anne White. White is 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs approximately 138 pounds. She has long auburn hair and green eyes.

They may be traveling together in a Blue 2014 Jeep Compass Sport with Iowa license plate LIU 044.

If you have any information, please contact the Iowa City Police Department at (319) 356-5276. For media inquiries, call (319) 206-5043.

Today, we pause to honor and remember those in our U.S. military who sacrificed everything for our freedom. Their memories live on in all who loved them.

Our offices will be CLOSED TODAY in observance of Memorial Day.

Today, on National Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who have laid down their lives in the line of duty to protect their communities. Their courage, dedication, and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude and support to the families and colleagues they've left behind, who continue to uphold their legacy of service and commitment.

May we always remember the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our safety and peace. 🕊

Our own Special Agent Scott Reger and Criminal Intelligence Analyst Nikki Roberts with the Iowa DPS Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center partnered last week to give a presentation on a criminal case. 🔍

The presentation was a great opportunity to examine how agents in the field work together with many different experts in the Department to solve complex cases. 🤝



Iowa Department of Public Safety

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the calendar week in which May 15 falls as . It is a time to pay special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.

We hope you join us this week, May 12-18, in honoring, remembering and supporting our dedicated law enforcement officers, past and present.

The photo features the Iowa Peace Officer Memorial, which was recently outfitted with new lighting to further illuminate the valor of fallen officers from dusk until dawn each night.

Happy Mother’s Day!

On this special day, the Iowa Department of Public Safety extends our warmest wishes to every mother whose unwavering love and resilience echo within the halls of our organization and beyond.

We pay tribute not just to the courageous mothers serving within our ranks but also to those who stand as the unsung heroes behind the badge. The spouses who support our members, providing a pillar of strength and understanding, and the women who raised the dedicated individuals committed to serving and protecting our communities. Your sacrifices and support do not go unnoticed.

Your roles may be varied, but each of you contribute immensely to the fabric of our Department and the safety of our state. Happy Mother’s Day to you all; your courage and compassion inspire us every day!

Reminder: This year's Iowa Peace Officer Memorial ceremony will take place this Friday, May 10 at 10:00 a.m.

Find more details here: https://dps.iowa.gov/press-release/2024-05-03/two-fallen-law-enforcement-officers-will-be-honored-iowa-peace-officer-memorial-may-10-2024-1000-am

Special Agent In Charge Don Schnitker was officially sworn in as the Assistant Director for the DCI Major Crime Unit this morning. Congratulations once again to Don and his family!



Iowa Department of Public Safety

We are pleased to announce the selection of Special Agent in Charge Don Schnitker to the rank of Assistant Director of Iowa DCI, overseeing the Major Crime Unit.

Don graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in sociology and psychology and has served with for about 23 years. He served four years as a DCI Special Agent I assigned to the Special Enforcement Operations Bureau and 17 years as a DCI Special Agent II assigned to the DCI Major Crime Unit.

In June 2022, Don was promoted to Special Agent in Charge/Bureau Chief of the Governor’s School Safety Bureau and has served in that role since, working tirelessly to make Iowa schools safer.

We're thrilled to be welcoming Don back on to the DCI team and look forward to his leadership. Please join us in congratulating him on his achievement! 👏

Iowa Department of Public Safety

Thank you to all school bus drivers!

Today, we shine a spotlight on the heroes behind the wheel – our dedicated school bus drivers. 🚌

Every day, these drivers ensure the safe passage of our children to and from school, braving early mornings and navigating through challenging weather conditions, all while keeping a vigilant eye on the safety and well-being of every passenger on board.

To all Iowa school bus drivers: thank you for carrying our most precious cargo - our children. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. Happy ! ✨

For more information on safety programs or to express your gratitude to a school bus driver today, reach out to your local Iowa State Patrol Public Resource Officer: https://dps.iowa.gov/public-resource-officer-unit

With National Prescription Drug coming up this Saturday, April 27, Susie Sher with our Office of Drug Control Policy is encouraging Iowans to "include their medicine cabinets in their spring-cleaning routine."

Local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies are teaming up to collect leftover prescription and over-the-counter drugs for this special one-day event held each spring and fall. The fall collection, held in October, netted over 5,550 pounds of old medicine from Iowans. To date, Iowans have safely disposed of over 101 tons of unused medications at these events.

Find a collection site near you: https://odcp.iowa.gov/programs/prescription-drug-take-backs

Learn more: https://dps.iowa.gov/press-release/2024-04-22/national-drug-take-back-day

Important Press Release from the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office. This suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.

We had the pleasure of participating in today's event in the "First Responder Zone," which made its debut in the Hall of Law and Flame. The Iowa Department of Public Safety and Iowa Department of Natural Resources worked together to create a mock crime scene, allowing students to conduct their own investigation. At the end, one of our Crime Lab representatives demonstrated how to collect a DNA sample.

It was an incredible opportunity to connect with Iowa's youth about the many career opportunities in DCI, including investigation, forensics and more!

Learn more: https://dps.iowa.gov/press-release/2024-04-17/iowa-dps-sponsors-first-responder-zone-build-my-future-career-fair

Headquarters - Des Moines

From the Colonel's Desk: "The public we serve and law enforcement officials across the country rely on Public Safety Telecommunicators each and every day. During National Public Safety Telecommunicator's Week, the Iowa State Patrol would like to extend our gratitude to all Local, County and Iowa Department of Public Safety Communications Specialists across the state of Iowa. We are grateful for the work you do to support our public safety efforts. Thank you for your dedication, composure and the reassuring actions you take during the most challenging of times. We are honored to work with you and appreciate your commitment to our public safety mission.”

- Colonel Nathan Fulk

Our new website has launched! Be sure to give us a visit: https://dps.iowa.gov/divisions-iowa-department-public-safety/iowa-division-criminal-investigation

See the press release: https://dps.iowa.gov/press-release/2024-04-16/iowa-dps-unveils-new-website

Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation provides investigative support and expertise to law enforcement and public safety agencies in the State of Iowa.

Hands-on training to prepare for law enforcement The opportunities are endless when it comes to this line of work, and you can receive hands-on training to prepare you for any situation. Mitch Mortvedt, Director of Professional Development and Su…

The missing person advisory issued for Rhiannon "Rainy" Walter on behalf of the Benton County Sheriff's Office has been canceled. She has been safely located. Law enforcement thanks the public for their assistance.

https://dps.iowa.gov/missing-person-advisory-canceled-benton-county-sheriffs-office