Training Courses

BadgeOps: Social Media and Open Source Investigations

Date & Time:
  • March 1, 2027
Location:
Lawrenceville, GA

Instructor: Nick Jerman

Course Duration: 8 hours

Cost: $249.00

Course Overview

This comprehensive training program explores the investigative applications of social media platforms and open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques for law enforcement professionals. Designed for officers, detectives, analysts, and command staff, the course emphasizes lawful and effective methodologies grounded in real-world operational experience.

What You'll Learn

Participants will gain practical knowledge on navigating major social media platforms to build cases using publicly available information. The curriculum emphasizes free and accessible OSINT tools and resources, enabling investigators to establish profiles and identify suspects without reliance on expensive proprietary software. The training covers website analysis, information gathering techniques, and case development strategies applicable across various investigative disciplines.

About the Instructor

Nick Jerman brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience from a major metropolitan police department. Throughout his career, he has worked assignments ranging from patrol to vice investigations, developing a strong foundational understanding of case development. Jerman is nationally recognized for his expertise in social media and open-source intelligence investigations and was instrumental in establishing his agency's Social Media and OSINT Unit. This unit became a valuable resource for agencies across North America and has directly supported human trafficking task forces, contributing to suspect identification and victim rescues in trafficking, drug, and homicide cases. His instruction combines current, practical field experience with policy considerations and proven investigative effectiveness.

Course Topics

  • Social Media Investigation Fundamentals
  • Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) Techniques
  • Website Analysis and Information Gathering
  • Case Development Using Public Information
  • Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • Investigation of Human Trafficking Cases
  • Drug and Homicide Investigation Applications

Upcoming Class Locations and Dates

Classes are scheduled throughout 2026 and 2027 in multiple locations across the United States, including Manassas VA, Boylston MA, San Diego CA, Strongsville OH, Henderson NV, Greer SC, Greenfield IN, Broomall PA, Lawrenceville GA, Los Angeles CA, Hobart IN, Newark NJ, and Oakwood GA.