Jessica Bourne
Jessica Bourne is a Forensic Technician II with the Richmond Police Department, bringing nearly nine years of experience in crime scene investigation and forensic fieldwork. In her current role, she responds to calls for service and is responsible for the comprehensive documentation of crime scenes, including photography, rough sketching, detailed note-taking, and the systematic collection and preservation of physical evidence. She works closely with medical examiners and lead detectives to ensure evidence is accurately processed and maintained for investigative and prosecutorial use. Jessica also plays a critical role in long-term evidence preservation, recognizing that cases often take months or years to resolve, and regularly contributes to cold case readiness through meticulous handling and storage of materials.
Her path into forensics began with a strong interest sparked by watching CSI: Las Vegas, where she was inspired by the character Catherine Willows and drawn to the idea of a strong woman in science who led with independence, skill, and determination. That early inspiration evolved into a lifelong career commitment in forensic science. Before transitioning into full-time crime scene investigation, Jessica served as a Program Director for Envision Experience, where she led the law and CSI track for high school students. In that role, she coordinated guest speakers, managed program logistics such as housing and equipment, and helped design the educational curriculum, ensuring students received meaningful, hands-on exposure to forensic and legal careers.
Jessica earned her bachelor’s degree at Virginia Commonwealth University, where she developed a deep connection to the city of Richmond, its campus environment, and its architecture. She went on to complete her master’s degree in Forensic Science at George Mason University in 2017. On the day of her graduate school commencement, she received an interview opportunity with the Richmond Police Department—an experience she describes as a defining, full-circle moment that aligned her education with her future career. Today, she continues to serve the Richmond community on the same streets where she once studied, while also returning to VCU as a guest lecturer. There, she engages students through classroom instruction and mock crime scene exercises, helping bridge academic learning with real-world forensic practice.
• Virginia Department of Forensic Science Systematic Approach Certification
• George Mason University - M.S.F.S.
• Tidewater Community College - AA, Social Sciences
• Virginia Commonwealth University - BS. Criminal Justice
• Guest Lecturer at Virginia Commonwealth University
• Mock Crime Scene Programs for Students at VCU
What do you attribute your success to?
I think what makes me successful is compartmentalization being able to separate your job and your life. If I were to bring that home to my child, I think I wouldn't be here. You have to separate, you know, everyone has a job to do, whether it's sitting at a desk being an accountant or working the circus we all can't take that home. The most rewarding part of my work is bringing closure and justice for families. We go about our daily lives at the grocery store and don't think about people dying and the horrific things that we see, so bringing closure for families is really the rewarding part. Especially for the true victims - the really innocent people, babies for example - who didn't ask for this violence. Bringing justice for them is equally rewarding. I'm also very proud of getting my master's degree and proving to myself that the hands-on work I did can lead to a full-time career. It's something I can stick on my wall, and it proves the knowledge that I can carry into the field.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them to set your goals don't just set your goals, shoot for the stars. Don't sell yourself short. If you live in a certain area, don't just subject yourself to that area. Explore and travel. Try every opportunity that you have, because saying no - that could have been your path. Always say yes, enjoy the journey, and shoot for the stars.