The editor and writers of The Evidence Log© have many times discussed in its pages specific events (one-time discreet happenings) as compared to trends (related events occurring over time). We have many times pointed out one or two events to watch, and often they turn out to be the seminal elements of a trend. From the growth of DNA to the targeting of the chain of evidence as a defense tactic, we have followed the sporadic events that developed the patterns.

For the first time ever, we want to predict a trend from a single event! We do have some support in related fields for making such a move. We are aware of activities that demonstrate a strong movement of professionalism in property and evidence management. We are aware of certification processes in a number of professions that have become de rigeur for advancement in those professions. We are aware of the growth of computer based learning and testing. We are aware that trends develop slowly, and are influenced from many factors, but this prediction looks from our perspective to be about as risk-free as a forecast can be.

Here's the event: Within the last few weeks, the Department of Human Resources, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, has posted a job opportunity for the Job Title of Evidence/Property Administrator within the Allegheny County Police Department. Included in the posting is the following:

This is a management position with an extremely progressive, pace-setting agency, so it is sure to take time to trickle down to Property Officers, but this specification within just a couple months after the certification was instituted, WILL be an event that creates the trend!