BadgeOps: Social Media and Open Source Investigations

Instructor: Nick Jerman

Course Duration: 8 hours

Course Fee: $249.00

Course Overview

This comprehensive training program provides law enforcement professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills in leveraging social media platforms and open source intelligence (OSINT) for effective criminal investigations. Designed for officers, detectives, analysts, and command staff, the course emphasizes lawful and evidence-based investigative techniques grounded in real-world application.

Instructor Background

Nick Jerman is an accomplished law enforcement veteran bringing more than two decades of experience from a large metropolitan police department. Throughout his career, he has worked in diverse assignments including patrol and vice operations, developing a strong investigative foundation and practical expertise in building cases from initial stages through resolution. His operational background in a high-activity urban environment provides him with credibility and perspective that resonates with law enforcement professionals at all ranks.

Nick is recognized nationally as a subject matter expert in social media and open source intelligence investigations. He was instrumental in establishing his agency's Social Media and OSINT Unit, developing a modern investigative capability that now serves as a resource for departments across North America. His work demonstrates a contemporary approach that balances policy compliance, investigative effectiveness, and practical application.

Training Focus

Throughout this course, participants learn current and applicable techniques for conducting investigations using social media platforms and open source intelligence methods. The instruction emphasizes free and accessible tools, enabling agencies to maximize investigative capabilities without significant financial investment. The curriculum provides participants with methods for searching social media platforms, building cases using publicly available information, and accessing resources while maintaining legal and ethical standards.

The training has been instrumental in supporting human trafficking task forces across North America, contributing to successful investigations and victim rescues. Additionally, Nick's methodologies have proven effective in identifying suspects in human trafficking, drug trafficking, and homicide investigations.

What You'll Take Away

Participants receive current, practical instruction immediately applicable to their investigative work. The course provides numerous resources and tools that officers can integrate into patrol operations and investigative procedures. Students leave with career-applicable knowledge and a toolkit of investigative resources for ongoing professional development.

Specialties Covered: Intelligence, Investigations, OSINT, Property & Evidence, Social Media, and Undercover Operations

This course is offered at multiple locations nationwide throughout 2026 and 2027, providing convenient access to this essential training for law enforcement agencies across the United States.