Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)

Successful crime scene investigation utilizes a step-by-step process in the discovery, preservation and collection of physical evidence. This course examines the fundamental theories of physical evidence, legal issues and the proper management of the collection and preservation of evidence. Topics include awareness of evidence; managing the scene; diagramming and sketching; photography; fingerprint, trace, impression, physiological and firearms evidence; arson and explosives; and safety issues. Designed for those entering the crime scene investigation field, crime scene investigators, attorneys and others who may benefit from learning how crime scenes are investigated.

A general examination of fingerprint pattern recognition and identification of inked (known) fingerprints and how they are used in the criminal justice field. Course topics also include examining impressions made by shoes and tire tracks. Students participate in hands-on exercises utilizing various techniques in recovering fingerprint and impression evidence.

Provides instruction on writing clear and concise forensic police reports. You will learn about note taking, how to properly document facts, and on the required factual elements needed for a complete forensic report.

General crime scene photography techniques for homicide scenes, autopsies, suicides, other dead-body scenes, assaults, burglaries and injuries. Discussion includes latest methods of photographic documentation and equipment required for close-up photography and techniques when photographing evidence such as fingerprints, impressions, bloodstains and other evidence requiring close-up or copy photography. Includes how to select equipment, technical photography (exposure, depth and focus), and flash and available-light photography. Course includes hands-on exercises.

This course examines the procedures and protocols of the medical examiner or coroner's office as they relate to the medical and legal issues involved in the investigation of the unnatural death. Topics include the examination and evaluation of evidence; time of death and post-mortem body changes; death by firearm injury, fire, electrocution and explosions, blunt force, knife wounds, and motor vehicle and airplane crashes; asphyxial deaths including suffocation and strangulation; and child deaths including SIDS, blunt force trauma, neglect and suffocation. The role of toxicology in death investigations is also discussed. Designed for law enforcement, public safety, legal and medical professionals.

Insects and other arthropods found at a death scene provide corroborating evidence regarding both the time and place of death and possible postmortem treatment of the victim. This course provides an overview on what to search for and how to handle items found when recovering entomological evidence at crime scenes. Discussions include the basic principles of entomology and the biological and ecological aspects of common arthropods. Lab exercises and simulated field studies provide practical experience in how to gather, interpret, record, preserve and use entomological specimens in forensic investigations.

An examination of the biological aspects of physical evidence, including chemistry, toxicology, DNA and other trace evidence associated with a crime. Identification and forensic analysis of evidence, including fiber, glass, firearm and tool marks, and paint are examined. Emphasis is placed on proper handling of evidence that is used in chemical analysis. Laboratory techniques in gas chromatography, infrared analysis and spectroscopy are discussed and demonstrated.

Examination of the elements of crimes: crimes against persons, property, public health and safety, and others. Differences between felonies and misdemeanors, and between crimes and torts are discussed. The Penal Code structure is explored. Overview of criminal procedure, including factual and legal burdens of proof; corpus delicti issues; procedures before, during and after trial; commonly encountered defenses; and general sentencing issues are presented to help students understand criminal law in context. Aspects of evidence relating to proof of crimes and limitations imposed on the introduction of evidence are introduced. No prior knowledge of the subject is needed.

Computers, cell phones and other devices often yield key evidence in the prosecution of crimes, including fraud, identity theft, terrorist plots, stalking and other personal crimes. This course provides an introduction to the technical, investigative, and legal issues related to computer and digital forensics. The topics include an overview of computer operating systems; basic data recovery tools such as EnCase, Forensic ToolKit (FTK), Cellebrite and XRY; search, seizure and privacy issues; ethics; and courtroom admissibility.

Utilizes the position and patterns of blood stains to reconstruct and determine events at crime scenes. Topics include how to construct various scenarios and determine geometric points of origin, limitations of different types of interpretations, proper documentation of evidence for court, and mechanisms for court display. Actual cases involving the interpretation of blood stain patterns and their relevance are reviewed and discussed.

This practicum provides a real-world application of crime scene investigation methods and techniques. You use the knowledge and skills learned from the required courses in the certificate program to demonstrate the proper management of the collection and preservation of evidence of a mock crime scene. Diagramming and photographing the crime scene, written report, and a group presentation are also required.

Providing testimony in court is a vital role of investigators. This course provides investigators the essential skills in courtroom testimony preparation and presentation to ensure their testimony is credible and reliable. Students take part in a mock trial exercise where they will defend their findings based on cases assigned in class. Students will learn to: apply effective presentation techniques when called to testify in court; articulate and emphasize the facts of a case on the witness stand; properly prepare by reviewing reports and evidence prior to testifying; understand the differences in direct-examination and cross examination; and develop confidence, ability, and control in presenting courtroom testimony. Excellent for investigators and others who work in the forensics and legal fields