Digital Forensics Next Steps, Accreditation and Timeline for Progression

Chief Superintendent Conrad Trickett (CSCTrickett) provided Police Scotland’s 6 monthly update on progress towards obtaining ISO 17025 within Digital Forensics. During discussions the following matters were raised;

JRyder noted the extended timeline and the role of Forensic Services on a consultancy basis due to their experience around assurance and accreditation. She sought clarity on when this becomes Police Scotland business as usual. CSCTrickett advised that he if it is assumed that accreditation will be gained in February 2024 for Aberdeen, the UKAS team will come back every 6 months to check on progress, therefore the business as usual and quality management approach will be instigated from that point. CSCTrickett advised that Police Scotland are alive to the challenges and complexities ahead, particularly as technology changes in the coming years.

Members were supportive of the direction of travel and discussed whether the forensic services committee was the correct forum in terms of governance. FDouglas advised that there are shared challenges around digital, physical forensics and the issues around regulation. FDouglas added that from a risk point there are synergies that make it useful and valuable for the FSC to have sight on this area of business.

Members NOTED the report.