In a recent search operation in Florida, NCIS' Major Case Response Team (MCRT) in concert with the Forensic Consultant Unit assisted a local police jurisdiction in the search and recovery of physical evidence from the bottom of a drained pond. The evidence was a key development in an ongoing homicide investigation.

NCIS has 17 MCRTs based in each of its field offices around the world. The defining principle of the MCRT is a team approach to solving crimes, from the crime scene examination to the courtroom. MCRT members are special agents who come from a variety of backgrounds within NCIS, including criminal investigations, foreign counterintelligence, fraud and computer investigations. MCRT members apply their proficiency in developing fingerprints; in collecting biological, trace and impression evidence; and in creating sketches and photographing the crime scene. They are provided advanced training and oversight by a handful of experts from NCIS' Forensic Consultant Unit.

The MCRT's approach enhances NCIS' ability to mobilize specialized resources and effectively process crime scenes anywhere in the world.