Forensic Scientist II Hannah Dygert, with the ISP Fort Wayne Regional Laboratory, was awarded as the Forensic Scientist of the year for the Indiana State Police.
Indiana State Police news release:
Forensic Scientist II Hannah Dygert Awarded 2025 Forensic Scientist of the Year
Indianapolis, Indiana (April 23, 2026) – The Indiana State Police held their annual awards and recognition ceremony in Indianapolis on Tuesday, April 21, 2026. The ceremony publicly recognized the achievements and accomplishments that too often go unrecognized. Indiana State Police personnel were honored for their dedication, service, bravery, and devotion to the department and the citizens of Indiana.
During the ceremony, Forensic Scientist II Hannah Dygert was awarded as the Forensic Scientist of the year for the Indiana State Police. Ms. Dygert received her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2019 from Purdue University in Anthropology, along with minors in Forensic Science and Law. She has been a Forensic Scientist in the Forensic Firearm Identification Unit at the Fort Wayne Regional Laboratory since 2021. In 2025, she completed 404 cases—well above the unit’s average of 264.
Her engagement with the criminal justice community is exemplary. She regularly collaborates with investigators and attorneys on complex cases, providing clear, informed guidance that strengthens case preparation and courtroom outcomes. Her seven courtroom testimony appearances reflect her poise, expertise, and ability to represent the laboratory with distinction.
Ms. Dygert has made significant contributions that enhanced the laboratory’s reputation and operational effectiveness. She has been instrumental in keeping the Fort Wayne backlog at manageable levels and consistently makes sound, timely decisions in complex casework. Her dependability is unquestionable, and she has proven herself to be a trusted steward of laboratory standards. Her professional engagement extends beyond the laboratory as well—she published “Changes to Glock Gen 5 Pistols and the Effect on Aftermarket Full Auto Conversion Devices” in the AFTE Journal and presented on this topic at the Midwest Firearm Training Seminar. She also serves on the Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE) Electronic Resource Committee, contributing to the development of a digitized serial number database. Additionally, she volunteered as the backup Safety Officer for the Fort Wayne Regional Laboratory and delivered firearms safety presentations during Forensic Science Week.
Ms. Dygert’s performance reflects not only technical excellence but also leadership, initiative, and a deep commitment to public service. Her contributions have had a measurable and lasting impact on the laboratory, the criminal justice community, and the quality of forensic science delivered in our region.
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