RCFL: Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory

Rocky Mountain RCFL is Recognized for Outstanding Work
02/09/07

The Adams County (Colorado) District Attorney praised the work of the Rocky Mountain Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (RMRCFL) on an investigation involving unlawful sexual contact. The suspect, Florentino Avila, was convicted of taking "upskirt" pictures at a grocery store in Thorton, Colorado. A press release issued by the Adams County District Attorney’s Office stated that when the victim confronted Avila, he fled the premises, but was apprehended by store security, and later taken into custody by the Thorton Police Department. Avila’s camera phone was provided to the RMRCFL for examination.

Upskirting is a form of voyeurism where images are captured either voluntarily, or in many instances, without the victim's consent or knowledge. The popularity and availability of upskirt photos has risen dramatically since the advent of the camera phone in 2000, and has sparked debate amongst state, local and federal lawmakers regarding the passage of legislation against this practice.

The RMRCFL played an integral role in the investigation by expediting and processing what the District Attorney called "crucial evidence." Laboratory Director Chris Buechner said, "This case illustrates how RCFLs are making a difference in the communities we serve. Thanks to highly skilled Examiners and the ample resources within our laboratory, we promptly provided our findings to the District Attorney’s Office while adhering to a strict set of standards and procedures. This ensures that our results will stand up in court—and they did."

Avila faces four year in the county jail for his crimes—his sentencing is scheduled for March 29, 2007.

[Rocky Mountain RCFL web site ]

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