About

The staff of the DFC includes experts in computer forensics, computer science, computer networks, computer and network security, and data recovery. While most computer forensic experts have training in specific computer forensic tools, DFC staff members have extensive backgrounds in all areas of computing. DFC staff members are more qualified to handle complex computer forensic investigations due to their comprehensive backgrounds in computing technology.

We are firm believers that our success stems from having a wide variety of expertise in both the areas of digital forensics and computer science. We pride ourselves on the accomplishments, diversity and experience of our staff, and in turn are able to provide our clients with exceptional quality digital forensic services and advice.

Below is our core team of investigators and experts:

 

Dr. Vic Fay-Wolfe, Director

Victor Fay-Wolfe is the founder and Director of the Digital Forensic Center. Interested in furthering the field of Digital Forensics, Dr. Fay-Wolfe founded URI's Digital Forensics Academic Program, the undergraduate and graduate degrees in Digital Forensics, and the Digital Forensics Research Lab. He has a PhD and MS in Computer Science from the University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Electrical Engineering from Tufts University. He is principal investigator on two of the National Institute of Justice's largest research awards for developing new technology to combat electronic crime. Dr. Fay-Wolfe has over 100 published articles and books in the field of Computer Science and has received over 10 million dollars in research funding from agencies such as the National Institute of Justice, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Homeland Security, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the Office of Naval Research, the Airforce Research Lab, and from several high-tech companies. He teaches courses in Digital Forensics, Computing Concepts, and in Distributed and Networked Systems. Dr. Fay-Wolfe has been a University professor for 16 years and he has been certified as a computer science and computer forensics expert in civil proceedings.

 

Kristen McCooey, Certified Investigator

Kristen McCooey is a senior investigator at the DFC and an expert in computer and digital forensics. Utilizing extensive training from Access Data, X-Ways Forensics, Guidance Software, the University of Rhode Island, and other industry leading experts, Ms. McCooey is an integral part of any investigation performed by the DFC. In addition to her investigative work with the DFC, she is involved in developing and administering Digital Forensic Courses at the University of Rhode Island. She holds her ACE computer forensics certification from Access Data, CCE Certification from ISFCE, and a BS in Computer Science and Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics from the University of Rhode Island.

 

Jacob Fonseca, Certified Investigator

Jacob Fonseca is an investigator as well as our in house systems architect. He is an experienced network administrator and is responsible for creating and maintaining the DFC lab and network. Mr. Fonseca specializes in cell phone and network analysis. He is a graduate in Computer Science from the University of Rhode Island and holds his EnCE certification from Guidance software.

 

Kevin Bryan, Senior Technical Staff

Kevin Bryan is a technology consultant for the Digital Forensic Center. His expert knowledge of computer systems and software give the DFC an edge in both our investigative work and our ability to consult, advise, and intelligently recommend products and services for clients. Mr. Bryan leads industry research projects on digital steganography detection and cracking, and human image detection in digital media. He holds a BS and a MS in Computer Science.

 

Sean Alvarez, Senior Technical Staff

Sean Alvarez is primarily a software engineer, and is a technology consultant for the DFC. He specializes in driver level software and programming Windows compatible applications. He has developed numerous computer forensic tools including his work with ForensicSoft, a developer of software write blockers and forensic boot disks. Mr. Alvarez is N+, A+ and a Microsoft Certified Professional. He has an undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a focus on Digital Forensics, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Digital Forensics.

 

Gerald Gent, Certified Investigator

Gerald Gent is a forensic investigator at the DFC. He has extensive training from AccessData and Guidance Software in the area of digital forensics. In addition to performing investigations, Mr. Gent is also working on two industry wide research projects in the areas of cell phone acquisition and analysis, and human image detection in digital media. He has an undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a focus on Digital Forensics, as well as his ACE computer forensics certification.

 

Richard Wagner, Certified Investigator

Richard Wagner is a forensic investigator at the DFC. He has extensive training from AccessData and Guidance Software in the area of digital forensics. In addition to performing investigations, Mr. Wagner is also working on two industry wide research projects in the areas of cell phone acquisition and analysis, and digital video processing. He has an undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a focus on Digital Forensics, as well as his ACE computer forensics certification.