FBI Gives Behind the Scenes Look at Weaponry and Evidence Gathering 9/18/09

Beau Berman
CBS 7 News
[email protected]
September 18, 2009

Midland, Texas -

The FBI is glamorized in movies and on television all the time. But now local community members are getting the inside story on “the bureau”. CBS 7 went behind the scenes to find out how the FBI works.

It's not every day you get to fire a custom AR-15 assault rifle, dust for fingerprints or use alternative light sources to uncover hidden bloodstains. But the executive shootout isn't like every other day.

"It helps them to understand us better and it helps us to know the public better. We want to know those that we serve here, what their concerns are", says FBI Agent, Matt Espenshade.

Midland community leaders are getting a one of a kind lesson in firearms and evidence techniques from special agents with more than 80 years of combined field experience.

"The adrenaline was just pumping so hard, I was like, it's kind of scary", says Mario Ramirez.

For most of the guys here, just like myself, it's their first time firing something like an AR-15, but once they finish they say it's something they'll never forget.

"It's really a lot of fun. I had never shot an assault rifle before", says Todd Sparks.

The FBI's El Paso division is bringing the shootout to the Permian Basin for the first time, giving civilians their shot at learning how America's investigators learn their craft.

"Explaining to them what the FBI is, there's some misconceptions about what the FBI does and who we are", says Espenshade.

After firing a shotgun and simulating a 'shoot or don't shoot' scenario the FBI's duties become clear. The targets… not so much.

To witness the awe shown by the community when presented with a weapon or a tactical flashlight is refreshing for agents who use them everyday. It's a chance for the nation's most storied law enforcement branch to connect with the public they serve.

"Our job is not about the guns and the badges. It's a fun thing about the job but what really motivates us is seeing others", says Espenshade.

As interesting as this program is for these participants, as of now, you can’t just sign up to participate.

Those who run charities and have demonstrated support to the community are chosen to take part.

http://www.cbs7kosa.com/news/details.asp?ID=15062

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