Fundamentals of Criminal Investigations
Instructor: Ron Lund
Date: October 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Dirigo Safety, LLC, 95 Main Street, Auburn, ME 04210
Cost: $279.00
Registration Deadline: October 5th
Equipment Needed: Laptop recommended
Course Overview
This training program is tailored for newly assigned investigators and patrol officers who wish to develop investigative competencies and advance into criminal investigation roles. The course equips participants with essential investigative skills required to manage a criminal investigation from initial report through case readiness for prosecution. Attendees will gain knowledge in crime scene evaluation, evidence handling and documentation, victim and witness interviewing, and the legal framework for obtaining search and arrest warrants. Participants receive sample warrant affidavits and case preparation checklists to facilitate submission of cases to prosecutorial offices.
Additional topics include custodial interrogation procedures, accessible investigative resources for case advancement, and the creation of comprehensive and precise reports that support effective prosecution outcomes.
Learning Objectives
- Grasp the functions and duties of criminal investigators within the Maine and Federal Criminal Justice System
- Comprehend constitutional and statutory protections governing investigative practices, including search and seizure, interrogation procedures, and compliance with established SOPs
- Create systematic investigative strategies using contemporary best practices
- Conduct proficient interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects utilizing lawful and ethical approaches
- Recognize, catalog, gather, safeguard, and document physical evidence while maintaining proper chain of custody procedures
- Locate and engage appropriate resources and partner agencies to facilitate investigative efforts
- Generate thorough, precise, and complete investigative documentation suitable for prosecution
MLEAP Accreditation
This course meets the following MLEAP Standards: 7.06 – Miranda Warning, 7.07 – Interrogation, 7.08 – Search and Seizure Warrants (partial), and 7.11 – Preliminary Investigations
Class Categories: Corrections, Law Enforcement
Class Tags: Investigative, MLEAP