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Case Scenario: You have been hired to create and run a brand new digital forensics lab for a mid-sized police department. Your assignment is to come up with a plan for the lab for the next 3 years.

Grading Criteria: The content requirements and points for this for the report outline below.

Criteria Diagram for the labs physical layout. Visio or other diagram software preferred but Excel can be used if that is not available. Must include evidence storage for up to 20 cases, 2 analysis computers, and physical security measures. Inventory of equipment needed. Minimum of items in diagram, software and other hardware needed. Lab accreditation plan Lab maintenance plan Staffing: Lab manager and technician requirements (job descriptions)

Diagram for the lab's physical layout:

The physical layout of the lab should be designed to ensure efficient and effective handling, storage, and analysis of digital evidence. A Visio or other diagram software can be used, and it should include evidence storage for up to 20 cases, 2 analysis computers, and physical security measures. The physical security measures should include key-code access, video surveillance, and alarms.

Inventory of equipment needed:

The lab should have the following minimum equipment in the diagram, software, and other hardware:

- Desktops and laptops

- Forensic hardware tools (write blockers, acquisition devices, etc.)

- Forensic software tools (EnCase, FTK, X-Ways, etc.)

- Network switches

- Monitors

- Printers

- Evidence storage systems

Lab accreditation plan:

To ensure that the lab meets the industry standards and is recognized as a facility where accurate and reliable digital forensics services are offered, accreditation from industry certification bodies such as the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) and the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) should be sought.

Lab maintenance plan:

The lab should be regularly maintained to ensure that it remains secure and functioning correctly. Maintenance plan should include the following:

- Regular hardware and software updates

- Regular audits of security measures and policies

- Routine backups of data stored in the lab

- Regular testing of forensic tools and processes for accuracy and reliability

Staffing:

The lab should have a manager and technician with specific job descriptions defining their roles and responsibilities. The Lab Manager should be responsible for overseeing the operations of the lab which include supervising the lab technician, coordinating with law enforcement agencies, and managing relationships with external stakeholders. The Lab Technician should be responsible for performing forensic examinations of digital media, preparing reports, and testifying to findings in court.

In conclusion, the above 4-point plan should guide the creation and running of a brand new digital forensics lab for a mid-sized police department. By strictly adhering to this plan, the department can improve its digital forensic capabilities and capacity, which will ultimately help solve more crimes and foster the trust of the communities it serves.