On behalf of the ESR board of directors, I am very pleased that the excellent work and commitment of Wayne Chisnall to forensic science in New Zealand has been recognised by the prestigious inaugural John Harber Phillips Award.
Wayne has spent more than 15 years dedicated to improving ESR’s forensic science service.
Under Wayne’s watch, the provision of forensic science services developed rapidly, particularly in relation to the use of DNA in investigations. He had the foresight to see the way this technology could revolutionise criminal investigations and convinced criminal justice stakeholders to support investment in this 'new technology'.
He was instrumental in ESR establishing a full forensic DNA analytical facility and associated investigation and evidence recovery service that are the envy of overseas jurisdictions. Equally important he developed a partnership relationship with the New Zealand Police, which ensured ESR maintained its role as an independent and impartial provider of forensic science services.
His leadership cemented ESR’s role as the critical operational science and research provider at the heart of the criminal justice system, delivering forensic services underpinned by research and the latest DNA technologies.
He is held in very high regard throughout the New Zealand justice sector and worldwide, evidenced by this award.
I know that all of ESR’s management and staff join me in congratulating Wayne on his award, and thank him for his dedication to the continuous improvement of forensic services for the New Zealand criminal justice system.
Link to the ANZPAA announcement