Criminal Investigation Fundamentals

This comprehensive course offers thorough instruction in the fundamental processes and methodologies essential to investigating crimes at all levels, beginning from the initial arrival at a scene through to presentation of evidence in court proceedings.

Participants will develop competency in investigating a wide range of criminal activities, spanning from property-related offenses to serious crimes targeting individuals. The course emphasizes proper identification and documentation of physical evidence to strengthen investigative outcomes. Additionally, instruction covers effective communication techniques for interviewing witnesses, victims, and suspects, along with exposure to valuable databases and networks that support investigative work.

Through this training, students will acquire foundational investigative competencies and gain preparation for advanced specialized training opportunities in the future.

Course Topics

• Foundational investigative responsibilities and duties
• Case assignment procedures and workload management
• Physical evidence identification and handling
• Witness and suspect interview techniques
• Utilization of confidential informants
• Property crime investigation including burglary, financial crimes, and retail theft
• Investigation of crimes against persons including sexual assault, robbery, and death investigations
• DNA analysis and social media applications
• Digital evidence examination encompassing cellular devices, cell tower data, geolocation technology, and wireless data
• Documentation practices and case reporting procedures
• Intelligence gathering and analysis

Target Audience

This training is designed for patrol officers, newly promoted and experienced detectives, supervisory personnel in investigations units, crime scene technicians, medical examiner and coroner investigators, military law enforcement investigators, and civilian personnel requiring regular interaction with sworn officers. The course is restricted to active law enforcement officers and civilian personnel employed in law enforcement or medical examiner agencies.

Course Duration

24 hours of instruction conducted from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily

Course Fee

$695.00

Instructor

John Cullen

Scheduled Sessions

Jacksonville, Florida
October 19-21, 2026
Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Altamonte Springs, Florida
February 8-10, 2027
Training Room, 225 Newburyport Avenue, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

Canton, Georgia
March 22-24, 2027
151 Elizabeth Street, Canton, GA 30114

Jacksonville, Florida
April 5-7, 2027
Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224

Jacksonville, Florida
October 18-20, 2027
Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224