Bessie developed an interest in forensic science, motivated by the potential to apply her analytical skills to solve crimes and assist in investigations.

Bessie trained with law enforcement agencies, learning about fingerprint analysis, document examination, and other forensic techniques.

Bessie became the chief document examiner for the Chesapeake, Virginia, Police Department. She was the first African American woman to hold this position in the United States.

Bessie worked as an expert witness in court cases, providing testimony on handwriting analysis and document authenticity. She also served as a consultant to law enforcement agencies and private clients.