by Adam W. Stern
The Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory (VFSL) at the University of Florida is proud to announce its partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) to investigate and combat wildlife crimes across the state. This collaboration brings together experts in veterinary forensics with those in wildlife forensics, to address the growing concerns of wildlife trafficking, poaching, and other crimes threatening the integrity of Florida’s wildlife. Dr. Adam Stern, Professor of Forensic Pathology, will lead this partnership. Dr. Stern says that “by sharing resources and knowledge, both agencies can work together to efficiently address these complex crimes, improve the preservation of endangered species, and ensure stronger legal accountability in protecting wildlife. Ultimately, this partnership will contribute to the protection and preservation of Florida’s vital ecosystems.”
Through this partnership, the faculty and staff in the VFSL will work directly with FWC forensic scientists and officers to analyze evidence collected from wildlife crime scenes. This investigatory work will include techniques in DNA analysis, toxicology, and forensic pathology. These procedures can help to determine the cause of death, track the origins of illegally trafficked species, and build stronger cases against those responsible for committing wildlife crimes. The newly combined expertise will provide invaluable support in gathering forensic evidence for application in legal proceedings, helping to ensure justice for wildlife victims and serving as a potential deterrent for future crimes. According to Dr. Eileen Roy-Zokan, a Forensic DNA Analyst for FWC, this new partnership “will allow for the increased collaboration between the two programs to achieve their shared mission, an expansion of relevant services to FWC officers in the field, and new training opportunities. We are honored to be partnered with such a passionate and hard-working team.”
This partnership also underscores the growing recognition of the importance of veterinary forensics in wildlife law enforcement. As wildlife crimes become an increasingly complex issue, the combination of scientific innovation and strategic collaboration is key to tackling the problem at every level. The work of this partnership will not only enhance law enforcement’s ability to investigate crimes but will also play a vital role in educating the public about preserving biodiversity and protecting wildlife. Together, the VFSL and FWC aim to set a new standard for wildlife crime investigations in Florida and beyond.