Nuclear CSI: The Radiological Evidence Examination Facility at SRNL
“No radiological work happens at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, so if radiological contamination is suspected, we are the FBI’s go-to facility.” – Kim Roberts
(Illustration: Susanna King, SRNL)
Fewer things have been as popular on television over the last few decades as shows about crime scene investigation. Viewers have eagerly tuned in to watch stories that revolve around analysis of evidence. Often the case is cracked not by investigators and detectives in the field, but by those back in the crime laboratory using the latest in specialized techniques and technology to analyze evidence that was seemingly insignificant.
Television typically sensationalizes these scenarios and the laboratories that accompany them, but they are not all rooted in fiction. This is particularly the case at Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), which hosts the Radiological Evidence Examination Facility, known simply as REEF.
REEF represents a collaboration between SRNL and the FBI. The facility provides a physical location and technical expertise to the FBI in support of safe forensic examination of evidence contaminated or suspected to be contaminated with radiological material. The material can be from domestic or international criminal activity or terrorism.
The facility is staffed by Program Manager Kim Roberts and Operations Manager Kirby Scott, with support from Staff Scientist Josh King. It is overseen by Line Manager Chuck Schick. “No radiological work happens at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, so if radiological contamination is suspected, we are the FBI’s go-to facility,” said Roberts. “And we can also provide consultation and advice if they are in the field.”
The FBI/SRNL partnership began in 1999, but was greatly expanded in the wake of September 11 and the anthrax (Amerithrax) incidents in 2001. The FBI provided a sizeable investment in the facility as a result. Five years later the initial REEF concept took shape, and began the process for ISO 17025 accreditation, which certifies analytical methods for measurements from items of interest collected during a forensic examination.
The facility’s physical configuration was completed in 2010. Lab space was expanded to handle everything from small environmental to highly radiological samples. REEF contains approximately 6000 square feet of space in two wings. It contains “High Bay, Hot Cells” that can accommodate highly radioactive evidence and handle it safely and remotely. This was made possible by FBI funding in 2012, when two cells used during the Cold War were refurbished for REEF’s use.
Currently, REEF is the only dedicated forensic examination facility in the U.S. for handling radiological evidence or traditional evidence contaminated with radiological materials. REEF works with the FBI’s Hazardous Evidence Analysis Team (HEAT), which is capable of analyzing trace evidence for such things as explosives and latent prints. In addition, REEF can analyze evidence for DNA. Numerous SRNL and Savannah River Site personnel can serve as subject matter experts and expert witnesses in various aspects of radiological cases.
A custom containment and examination hut. (Photo: FBI Laboratory)
REEF is in regular communication with the FBI and stands at the ready 24/7 should it get the call. The facility prides itself on its flexibility and can adapt itself to the nature of the evidence it receives. It can construct custom containment spaces, and even large outdoor huts, as the evidence requires.
Another REEF asset is the Mobile Digital Radiography and Isotope Identification System, or MoDRIIS, also funded by the FBI. This self-contained trailer weighs a staggering 63,250 lbs. It can perform powerful X-rays on evidence and has a high-power detector to identify isotopes present in radiological material.
SRNL’s reach and expertise is wide ranging. It has trained more than 80 forensic examiners and scientists, as well as more than 800 FBI special agents. REEF has several international partnerships, including collaborations with the U.K., Australia, Canada and Sweden.
The facility, its members and partners are kept sharp and at the ready through periodic exercises. Case scenarios with mock evidence provide opportunities to challenge capabilities, put equipment through its paces, and ensure the overall performance and readiness of the facility.
REEF investigators examine evidence. (Photo: FBI Laboratory)
These training opportunities allow for radioactive source detection and response, simulated radioactive contaminated evidence and tactical training. Though kept secret, the exercise code names are based on aquatic themes in keeping with the REEF motif.
SRNL works closely with the FBI in planning and executing these exercises, and strives to support the FBI in every way it can. “An FBI Laboratory Director visited REEF during my tenure as Program Director and praised our customer service,” said Roberts. “We are always looking to foster and grow our relationship with the FBI.”
Through its partnership with and support from the FBI, this one of a kind, adaptable and responsive facility will continue to serve as a center of excellence. REEF may not be as glamorous as crime scene television, but it’s nonetheless a critical asset to the nation.
