This week is Property and Evidence Professionals Appreciation Week and we’re happy to celebrate our very own evidence specialist, Kyle Duchschere.

Kyle has served as the department’s evidence specialist since 2016. Prior to that Kyle worked as a police officer and investigator for the EPPD for 31 years.

As the evidence specialist, Kyle manages all the evidence that comes into the department. In 2024, that amounted to 5,031 new pieces of evidence. Kyle also manages the disposal of evidence according to a retention schedule set by the State of Minnesota. In 2024, Kyle disposed of 4,444 pieces of evidence. To date in 2025, Kyle has already taken in 809 pieces of evidence and disposed of 1,477 pieces.

The evidence room where Kyle works is tightly controlled in order to preserve the chain of custody. Kyle must document everything and everyone who comes in and out of the evidence room. He is also responsible for ensuring evidence is sent to our prosecutors to be made available during case trials. An audit of the room is conducted quarterly, and a full inventory is conducted every two years. We always pass with flying colors due to Kyle’s diligence.

Kyle’s attention to detail and friendly demeanor make him an incredible asset to our department. We are lucky to have him and are happy to celebrate him this week!