Center For Applied Forensics at Jacksonville State University

08/27/2026

Agencies from all over Alabama got to learn about processing items for latent prints at CFAF yesterday.

07/31/2026

Always willing to help!

After several weeks of committed and consistent effort, the Pell City Police Department has concluded its investigation and excavation of a site in Talladega County.

The decision to conduct the excavation was based on information received during a long-standing criminal investigation. Multiple witnesses, repeated indications from cadaver dogs during separate deployments, and physical characteristics of the site consistent with information developed during the investigation corroborated a credible tip. Given the totality of the information, it was a lead that could not be ignored.

Throughout the investigation, detectives considered numerous missing person and unresolved cases from across the region. Authorities intentionally released limited information while the search was ongoing. Our priority was to follow the evidence, protect the integrity of the investigation, and avoid causing unnecessary distress to families until the facts could be fully examined.

The excavation has now been completed, and no human remains were located.

While this was not the outcome we hoped for, pursuing every credible lead is part of our commitment to seeking the truth and providing answers to victims and their families. We remain dedicated to following the evidence wherever it leads, because no missing person is ever forgotten.

We are grateful for the outstanding partnership and support provided by the Lincoln Police Department, St. Clair County District Attorney Lyle Harmon, Talladega County District Attorney Steve Giddens, both District Attorneys' Offices, the Jacksonville State University Center for Applied Forensics, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pell City Street Department, Griffin Industries, and the many volunteers who assisted throughout this effort. The teamwork and professionalism displayed by everyone involved were exceptional and represent public service at its best.

07/08/2026

CFAF swag hanging out at the Partheon and at the Colosseum! Where are you taking your CFAF swag?

06/09/2026

CFAF swag hanging out in Orange Beach! Where are you taking your swag this summer! Send us pics of your adventures with CFAF swag!

04/29/2026

Another late wet night for CFAF

04/21/2026

Always glad to help out!

An arrest has been made in connection with a burglary at Edwards Grocery and a resulting high-speed chase, according to Jacksonville Police Chief Marcus Wood.

Jacksonville officers, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested Marcus Dewayne Evans, 24, of Bessemer, on charges of third-degree burglary and fleeing or attempting to elude. Evans was apprehended Monday, April 20, the first of three suspects in a burglary and high speed chase that occurred on an early morning in late March at Edwards Grocery on Alabama 204.

“We believe this is the first arrest of three,” said Wood. “Investigators are still scouring over evidence. We will not rest until all three individuals have been arrested.”

Wood thanked the marshals service, the FBI, the East Metro Area Crime Center and the Center for Applied Forensics at Jacksonville State University for their assistance with the investigation.

Anyone with information can anonymously contact Central Alabama CrimeStoppers at 334‑215‑7867 or submit an anonymous tip at 215stop.com.

04/09/2026

FI-330 Forensic Documentation and FI-350 Crime Scene Processing students were able to get some hands on experience at CFAF this week!