Steve Rago

Steve Rago is an evidence technician at S-E-A’s Chicago location. In this role, Mr. Rago systematically collects evidence at fire, explosion, and major property damage scenes, while working with experts and clients during the investigative process, ensuring requests for evidence and documentation are met. Mr. Rago also manages the evidence budget, while purchasing the equipment needed to process a variety of scenes S-E-A investigates. He is responsible for scene documentation utilizing the latest techniques and technologies, in the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence in compliance with ASTM standards. Additionally, he operates UAV (Unmanned Aircraft Vehicles) providing pilot services for aerial video/ photographic/mapping documentation of evidence, FARO®, and Matterport to accurately document the scene. Mr. Rago is also responsible for security, storage, and disposition of evidence according to company procedures.

Mr. Rago earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Western Illinois University. He comes to S-E-A from the Palatine Police Department where he was an Arson Investigator (State of Illinois), and Crime Scene Specialist. In this role, he managed investigations involving suspicious deaths, missing persons, property crimes, and fire investigations to resolution. Steve worked closely with his fire department colleagues to process fire scenes and conduct witness interviews. As a Forensic Technician assigned to the Major Case Assistance Team, he assisted multiple police departments with homicide investigations in their respective jurisdictions.

Mr. Rago is an IAAI-Fire investigation Technician, IAAI-Evidence Collection Technician, NAFI-Certified Fire and Explosions Investigator, and NAFI- Certified Fire Investigation Instructor. Additionally, he is an ACFE- Certified Fraud Examiner.