From Curiosity to Courtroom: A Journey Through Digital Forensics

With over half a decade of hands-on experience across two major police forces, Ashley is now proudly serving as a Senior Digital Forensic Investigator with our Digital Forensic Unit (DFU). His role is as varied as it is vital, blending technical analysis, device extractions, and courtroom presentations to help bring offenders to justice.

Can you describe your role and what a typical day looks like for you in the DFU?

I started this role in April 2025; however, I previously worked for Thames Valley Police (TVP) as a Digital Forensic Technician back in 2017.

In 2019, I moved to Greater Manchester Police, where I worked as a Digital Forensic Investigator (DFI) for six years. Now, I’m back at TVP as a Senior DFI.

There isn’t really a typical day in the DFU. One day, I might be writing technical reports and analysing data; the next, I could be extracting digital devices like a phone or a laptop. The following day, I might find myself in court, standing in front of a jury to explain my findings. The work varies from day to day, and that’s what keeps the job interesting.

What inspired you to pursue a career in digital forensics, and how did you get started?

I’ve always enjoyed breaking things down and understanding how they work, and thankfully, being a digital forensic investigator has enabled me to scratch that itch. Once I learned about digital forensics, I knew this was an area I wanted to get involved in. I obtained a Digital Forensic Degree, and that helped me get employed by TVP (the first time round) as a Digital Forensic Technician.

What is the most rewarding part of your job, and what’s the most challenging?

For me, the most rewarding part of the job is seeing the result of all your hard work. Some of the work I have done has helped bring some dangerous individuals to justice and has helped to protect the public. I get a big sense of satisfaction knowing that the work I have accomplished has made a difference to victims and their families.

As for the most challenging, at times I’m faced with data that I cannot explain, and that can be frustrating. I’ve spent long periods of time researching and testing just to achieve very little. Usually, a fresh pair of eyes is all that’s needed, and everyone here at the DFU is very knowledgeable and willing to help!

How does your work contribute to criminal investigations and the wider goals of policing?

These days, it feels like there’s some form of digital element in all police enquiries. Everyone has a phone, so there’s a good chance the DFU will be involved in that investigation. In some cases, all the key evidence is digital; therefore, the work we do plays a huge part in that criminal investigation. No matter how big or small our work is on a particular case, our goal remains the same: to support victims and bring offenders to justice.

What advice would you give to someone considering a role in digital forensics?

Digital Forensics is constantly evolving, so the ability to learn and problem-solve is super important. It’s common to be faced with something we’ve never come across before, and it’s our job to figure out how it works. You never know, something you find/identify might become key evidence.

Also, having a fundamental understanding of computer systems will be extremely helpful. There are a lot of free online courses and materials out there for you to sink your teeth into to get yourself started.

Can you share something interesting or unexpected about your role that most people might not know?

There’s actually a lot of inter-department collaboration in this role. Since digital forensics is involved in all types of crime, you get to work alongside many different officers and staff, especially in major crimes. It’s nice to be able to assist detectives with their digital enquiries and answer all their tech questions (the blank confused looks are especially great when explaining something very technical).

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Learn More About Digital Forensics

Working in digital forensics is both challenging and rewarding. Every day brings something new, whether it’s solving complex technical problems, supporting major investigations, or helping to secure justice for victims. To learn more about the work we do and career opportunities in this field, visit our Forensics page.