Target and Law Enforcement Agencies
The Project
Target's Forensics Service team partners with both federal and local law enforcement agencies to help improve the safety of the communities Target serves.
"I know from being here twelve years that Target is sincere. If all companies did what we do, that would be really powerful." -- Rick Lautenbach, Manager Target Forensic Service Lab
The
In recent years, Target has taken a lead role in helping law enforcement agencies at the local, state, federal and international level solve crimes by applying store practices, such as inventory-tracking technology. Most of this work is confidential; however, a recent case exemplifies the pro bono expertise Target provides to law enforcement agencies around the country. In November 2003, Target's Forensic Services team helped the Minneapolis FBI Field Office investigate the kidnapping and murder Dru Sjodin, a student at the University of North Dakota, using available technology to analyze surveillance video from a store.
Target's Pro Bono Investment
Target has donated tracking technology and database translation, in addition to employee time to help local and state law enforcement agencies. Currently, about 30 percent of the Target Forensic Lab's workload is related to supporting investigations for law enforcement agencies. To date, Target has provided forensics assistance to more than 100 law enforcement agencies, all at no cost.
The Impact
Target has played a critical role analyzing criminal evidence for a number of police, FBI and other law enforcement cases. In the Dru Sjodin case, Target's Forensic Services team identified a man matching the suspect's height and mannerisms just before the disappearance, bringing key evidence to help eventually close the case.
About the Client
Target partners with local and federal law enforcement agencies to improve the safety of the communities we serve. Because we know that strong communities begin with safe families and homes, we also partner with organizations aimed at disaster preparedness and relief and family violence prevention.
Minneapolis-based Target serves guests at 1,591 stores in 47 states nationwide by delivering today's best retail trends at affordable prices. Target is committed to providing guests with great design through innovative products, in-store experiences and community partnerships. Target (NYSE: TGT) gives more than $3 million a week to its local communities through grants and special programs. Since opening its first store in 1962, Target has partnered with nonprofit organizations, guests and team members to help meet community needs. Learn more about the company and its commitment to the community at www.target.com.