This is a course for both patrol officers and investigators that identifies concerns, which require a specialized response to various crime scene situations. Participants will garner information on evidentiary indicators, special concerns in search warrants, dangers caused by evidence, and how to remedy problems. It will enable investigating officers to better recognize and preserve evidence, enhance their own safety, and present stronger prosecutions in crucial cases.

Many officers lack experience with homicide scenes and they may be truly rare for rural officers. Child abuse is a specialized area of investigation, but patrol officers are exposed to indicators that they may not recognize and are often the first responders to situations that expose child abuse and require special protective actions.

The class will also focus on weapons of mass destruction (WMD) incidents and investigation, as the terrorist threat is present now more than ever. Police at all levels need a basic understanding of the nature of the offenders, special dangers, and what role each involved agency will play in the response and investigation.  Methamphetamine labs have become common, but the dangers they pose are uncommon and potentially lethal to police responders.

Finally, sexual assailants come in a variety of offender typologies. It is important for officers to recognize unusual evidence, and to understand what the evidence is telling them about the offenders. 

8-hrs Total (CEH: 1-hour Interpersonal Perspectives; 6-hours Technical Skill & 1-hour Legal Studies)