This course was created to build confidence in your ability to work through processing a crime scene from receiving a request for processing to testifying on the witness stand. Techniques and information are provided not only through presentations, but hands-on training and real case examples. Instructors will cover a broad range of topics with emphasis given to recognizing, documenting, collecting, preserving, processing, and analyzing physical evidence. Investigators, crime scene technicians, and agency personnel who investigate crime scenes will all benefit from this course.

We will pay particular attention to the interpretation of discovered evidence, its value within the scene, and usefulness in solving the crime. You will participate in exercises that will give you experience in latent print development techniques and using light energy to process a scene. You will also learn how to interpret bloodstain patterns and use chemical enhancement methods. Courtroom procedures and information for presenting crime scene evidence will also be discussed.

Topics Include

• Discussion of specific evidence-related scenes ranging from simple property crimes to crimes against persons
• Photography procedures for scene documentation
• DNA and where to find it and collect it
• Latent print development techniques
• Alternative light sources – processing scenes and related evidence with light energy
• Casting – tire and shoe impressions, etc.
• Bloodstain documentation and chemical enhancement
• Evidence collection and packaging
• Courtroom testimony

Audience

Crime scene technicians, patrol officers, newly assigned and seasoned detectives, investigations supervisors, medical examiner and coroner investigators, and military investigative personnel

This course is restricted to active sworn and non-sworn law enforcement and medical examiner personnel.

Course Length

24 hours

Prerequisite(s)

You should have some field experience or knowledge of crime scene processing.

Note

This course is IAI Crime Scene Certification approved.

What Our Students Are Saying

• “The course revealed many areas that needed improvement in my processes. Many ideas and processes will be added to the job.” – J.W.
• “The hands-on activities we did really helped me understand techniques I've never used before.” – A.C. Crime Scene Tech
• "I really enjoyed this workshop. It was an in-depth look at the things I've been learning since I started. The instructors were great and engaging.” – J.W.
• “Excellent quality of instruction and real life application.” – P.B. Crime Scene Tech.
• “The instructors were very knowledgeable on each of the topics. Showed different techniques to process scene for departments that do not have the funds for top grade equipment.” – Dep. Inv. J.D.
• “Excellent class!” – Det. B.P.
• “I loved the hands on work. I do not work in crime scene, but the course was helpful in my job as a violent crimes investigator.” – Inv. K.L.
• “Class was very hands on. Really enjoy the class; instructor really knows everything about processing a crime scene. Very knowledgeable.” – K.T., Evidence Technician
• “Great course. Instructor was very knowledgeable with material and up-to-date with current techniques.” – Inv/Capt J.O.
• "Amazing class! It really boosted my confidence when dealing with crime scenes. I'd honestly take this class again! – N.P., Evidence Techinician