Investigation and Prosecution of Cold Case Homicides by NCJTC
Investigation and Prosecution of Cold Case Homicides
This comprehensive two-day training program is designed to strengthen the investigative techniques and prosecutorial strategies necessary for successfully resolving long-standing and unsolved homicide cases. Participants will gain practical knowledge through detailed examination of actual case files, review of evidence-based best practices, collaborative group discussions, and access to current investigative tools and resources.
The course emphasizes proven methodologies for navigating the unique challenges associated with cold case prosecution while examining common pitfalls that can undermine successful outcomes. Additionally, attendees will explore strategies for establishing and managing effective cold case units within their organizations.
Training Details
Dates: September 29-30, 2027
Location: Regional Public Safety Training Center, 1550 50th Street Southeast, Rochester, MN 55904
Hours: 16 hours of instruction (8:30 am - 4:30 pm both days)
Cost: $450.00
Registration Deadline: August 23, 2027
Course Topics
- Death investigation processes and procedures
- Cold case selection, preparation, and management strategies
- Collaboration between investigators and prosecutors
- Behavioral analysis in cold case investigations
- Advanced interviewing techniques for cold cases
- Case strategy development
- No body homicide investigations
- Biological forensic technology applications
- Case studies and student case reviews
Who Should Attend
This training is appropriate for crime analysis professionals, forensic service specialists, coroners and medical examiners, law enforcement personnel, and prosecutors.
Instructors
James Holmes - Special Agent (Ret.), Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation. Mr. Holmes has served as a certified law enforcement officer in Wisconsin since 1995 and brings extensive experience from his work with the Dane County Sheriff's Department and Fitchburg Police Department. During his tenure with the Wisconsin Department of Justice/Division of Criminal Investigation since 1996, he has been involved in numerous adult and child homicide investigations, equivocal death investigations, officer-involved death cases, and multiple cold case homicide investigations.
Mark MacKizer - NCJTC Associate Instructor. Mr. MacKizer retired after 27 years as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where he conducted violent crime investigations and held roles including Crisis Management Coordinator and team leader for the FBI's Southeast Region Child Abduction Rapid Deployment Team. During his final seven years with the FBI, he was assigned to the Behavioral Analysis Unit, providing behavioral analysis support for violent crime investigations. He co-authored Crimes Against Children: Behavioral and Investigative Perspectives and contributed to the third edition of the FBI's Child Abduction Response Plan. Mr. MacKizer continues to provide behavioral analysis consulting services to government and private sector clients.
What's Included
Training fees cover 16 hours of instruction, course materials, and instructional costs. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for meals, travel, and lodging.
Lodging Options
Several hotels are available in the Rochester area, including Best Western Rochester Hotel Mayo Clinic Area, Holiday Inn Express Rochester South Mayo Area, Home2Suites by Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rochester Mayo Clinic, and Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Mayo Clinic Area South.