Criminal Investigation Fundamentals
This comprehensive 24-hour course equips law enforcement professionals with essential knowledge and practical skills needed to conduct effective criminal investigations across all severity levels. Participants will gain instruction on investigative processes and methodologies that span from initial scene response through courtroom testimony and evidence presentation.
The curriculum addresses investigation techniques applicable to both property-related offenses and crimes against persons. Attendees will master proper identification, collection, and documentation of physical evidence. The course also covers effective communication strategies for questioning witnesses, victims, and suspects, along with leveraging intelligence networks and investigative databases to support case development.
Key Topics Covered:
- Core investigative responsibilities and duties
- Case management and workload organization
- Physical evidence recognition and handling
- Witness and suspect interviewing techniques
- Confidential informant development and management
- Property crime investigation (burglary, fraud, organized retail theft)
- Violent crime investigation (sexual assault, robbery, homicide)
- DNA analysis and social media investigation
- Digital evidence collection (mobile devices, cellular data, geolocation, wireless networks)
- Report writing and case documentation
- Intelligence gathering and analysis
Intended Audience: This course serves patrol officers, both new and experienced detectives, investigation supervisors, crime scene technicians, medical examiner and coroner investigators, military investigative personnel, and non-sworn law enforcement staff who collaborate with sworn officers. Enrollment is restricted to active law enforcement and medical examiner personnel.
Course Details: 24 hours of instruction with sessions held 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Cost is $695.00 per participant. Instruction is provided by John Cullen.