A comprehensive, hands-on course designed to provide foundational crime scene investigation skills, from initial response through evidence documentation, collection, and courtroom testimony.
Course Overview
This 40-hour course is designed to equip crime scene investigators and law enforcement officers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to properly process crime scenes and preserve evidentiary integrity. Emphasis is placed on systematic scene management, thorough documentation, accurate evidence recognition and collection, and preparation for courtroom testimony.
Instruction combines lecture with extensive hands-on practical exercises covering real-world crime scene scenarios. Participants will learn foundational techniques used in professional crime scene investigations, with a focus on defensible practices that support successful case outcomes and legal review.
Hands-on exercises reinforce proper technique, evidence handling, and decision-making under controlled conditions.
Course Structure
The course is delivered over five days and includes:
- Progressive instruction in crime scene investigation fundamentals
- Daily hands-on practical exercises
- Mock crime scene processing
- Final review and certificate presentation
Hands-on application is emphasized throughout the course to reinforce proper techniques and defensible practices.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand initial responder responsibilities, scene safety considerations, and legal obligations
- Apply systematic approaches to crime scene management, control, and processing
- Document crime scenes using professional photography, notes, sketches, and structured search methods
- Recognize, document, and collect physical, trace, and biological evidence in a defensible manner
- Develop, enhance, and collect latent print and bloody impression evidence using accepted forensic techniques
- Detect, document, and recover impression evidence, including proper casting methods
- Document and interpret bloodstain patterns and shooting scenes
- Prepare clear investigative reports and provide effective courtroom testimony
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for:
- New crime scene investigators
- Law enforcement officers with limited crime scene experience
- Personnel transitioning into crime scene responsibilities
No prior crime scene investigation experience is required.
Certification & Credit Hours
This course is approved by the International Association for Identification (IAI) and qualifies toward certification and recertification requirements.
- Crime Scene Investigations — 40 hours
Course Format & Details
- Format: Lecture and hands-on practical exercises
- Duration: 40 hours (5 days)
- Prerequisites: None
- Materials Provided: Instructor-supplied training materials
- Certification Credit: Approved for International Association for Identification (IAI) certification and recertification
- Safety: Scene safety, PPE, and evidence handling protocols emphasized throughout the course
Hosting Information
This course may be hosted by:
- Individual agencies
- Regional training groups
- Conferences
Training delivery and scheduling may be tailored to meet the needs of the hosting organization.