Bringing Forensic Science to Animal Crime Investigations
The Animal Forensics Institute trains investigators, builds evidence-grade tools, and develops the science needed to deliver justice to animal cruelty.
Explore the Institute
Who We Are
About
The scientists, investigators, and advocates building a new standard for animal crime investigation.
What We Do
Our Work
From statewide training programs to landmark forensic breakthroughs — our programs in action.
Where We're Headed
Vision
Building one of the nation's first dedicated animal forensics laboratories and a national model.
The Opportunity
Empowering the People Who Protect Animals
Impact-Driven Research
Our research delivers new initiatives and methods for the best forensic investigations of animal crime. We create new tools and techniques to uncover and analyze evidence critical to animal cruelty cases.
Building Forensic Capacity
We provide agencies with purpose-built equipment and hands-on training so investigators can document and preserve evidence to the highest professional standards.
Strengthening Prosecution
Better evidence leads to better outcomes. Our work gives the courtroom the evidentiary foundation and transparency it needs to break the cycle of cruelty and deliver justice to animals.
Get Involved
Two Ways to Make an Impact
Partner With Us
We are actively building our regional and national partners to expand our programs, co-develop research, and replicate the Maryland model in communities across the country.
- Collaborative research and method development
- Training program co-sponsorship and expansion
- Evidence kit distribution and field deployment
- Policy and advocacy collaboration
Support the Institute
Your donation directly supports our mission to deliver training and resources to animal crime investigators, to build new techniques for capturing evidence, and establish one of the nation's only dedicated animal forensics laboratory.
- Fund evidence collection kits for under-resourced agencies
- Support training seminars for animal control officers
- Contribute to dedicated lab equipment and facilities
- Sponsor student research and scholarships
- Help publish and disseminate forensic methodology