Morris County sheriff’s crime scene unit earns international recognition after second assessment review
MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon announced that the Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Section has successfully completed its second assessment review by the Highlands Forensic Investigations & Consulting Corporation, earning recognition for meeting rigorous international quality and performance standards.
The section was the first in New Jersey to undergo an independent assessment by Highlands, which examined crime scene operations and management across all 39 municipalities in the county. The four-year review included an on-site visit, annual file reviews, and evaluations of training, competency, and documentation.
In 2023 and 2024, the Crime Scene Investigation Section handled 1,862 cases, with deaths, burglaries, and motor vehicle crashes making up the majority of calls for service.
Under the leadership of Detective Captains Denise Thornton and Laura Flynn, detectives submitted 133 detailed proofs demonstrating compliance with eight categories of crime scene operations. The review concluded with Highlands assessors presenting a Certificate of Conformity to Sheriff Gannon and the unit, validating conformity with ISO 17020 international standards.
“Congratulations to Sheriff Gannon and the entire Morris County Sheriff’s Office on successfully completing their second Assessment Review with Highlands Forensics. This milestone underscores an unwavering dedication to excellence and superior service, setting a shining example for law enforcement nationwide,” Assessor Howard Ryan said.
Sheriff Gannon praised his team for their professionalism and commitment. “We are very thankful for the expertise and thorough assessment given to our Criminal Scene Investigation Section by Highlands Forensic Investigations & Consulting. Their work, guidance, and recommendations were, and are, a tremendous benefit to the professionalism we exhibit and the service we provide. I applaud the people who do the job day in and day out. You make it look easy. The sacrifices you make to meet the standard are appreciated by me and the people of Morris County. It’s not easy to let someone in and ‘kick the tires’ so to speak. This Highland’s recognition is a true honor. Few agencies in the State have attained this recognition after a full onsite visit. We will use this assessment and the feedback we have received to find ways for us to do the job better.”
Highlands assessor Laura Tramontin commended the unit, saying, “The MCSO Crime Scene Investigation Section has embraced the added value of demonstrated quality, continuity, consistency, and competency, all of which have strengthened the integrity and effectiveness of their investigations.”
The unit’s policies and procedures are detailed in the “Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Manual,” covering categories such as investigative activities, evidence control, ethics, safety, and reporting.
The Crime Scene Investigation Section will continue annual reviews by Highlands and undergo a full on-site assessment every four years.
