Cold Case Homicide Investigations Seminar
Dates: April 26-27, 2027
Location: Wharton County Sheriff's Office, 315 E Elm Street, Wharton, TX 77488
Cost: $325.00
Duration: 2 days
Instructor: Special Agent Jen Spears
This two-day intensive seminar addresses the unique challenges detectives face when investigating long-dormant homicide cases. While cold cases represent some of the most demanding and emotionally taxing work in detective investigations, they also offer tremendous satisfaction when resolved. This course emphasizes proven strategies for reinvigorating stalled investigations with the goal of providing families with the closure they desperately need.
A significant portion of the curriculum focuses on the emerging field of forensic genetic genealogy and its application to cold case investigations.
Key Topics Covered:
- Selecting which cases warrant reinvestigation
- Strategies for reviewing archived case materials and identifying overlooked evidence
- How advances in forensic technology can impact previously unsolvable cases
- Best practices for contacting family members with renewed investigative activity
- Investigative steps following a positive DNA identification
- Understanding forensic genealogy methodology and case applicability
- Effective techniques for re-interviewing witnesses after extended periods
- Proper administration of photographic identification procedures years after original investigation
- Determining whether to debrief original investigating detectives
- Common investigative errors that compromise cases and remediation approaches
- Analysis of multiple actual case examples throughout the seminar
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made more than 21 days prior to the course start date receive a full refund minus a 5% processing fee. No refunds are issued for cancellations within 21 days of the course; however, student replacements are permitted.