Crime scene investigators play a critical role in solving crimes. Gathering and analyzing evidence at the crime scene can help law enforcement officials identify the perpetrator and bring them to justice. To succeed in this field, crime scene investigators must comprehensively understand forensic science and crime scene investigation techniques. Fortunately, many crime scene investigator training courses are available to help investigators gain this knowledge. This article will discuss some essential crime scene classes you should take to improve your skills. Learning about the various types of crime scene investigations is vital, and these courses will put you on track.
Crime Scene Investigation - Basic - 80 hours
The basic crime scene investigation training course is an essential step in becoming a crime scene investigator. This course covers all the basic concepts and methodologies of crime scene investigation, from physical evidence collection to processing techniques. In addition, the course provides an overview of basic crime scene safety procedures. This is an introductory course for anyone interested in pursuing a career in crime scene investigation.
Crime Scene Investigation - Advanced - 24 to 40 hours
The advanced crime scene investigation training courses builds on the foundation laid in the introductory class, providing a more in-depth look at the various aspects of crime scene investigation. Students will learn advanced techniques for collecting and preserving evidence and how to document a crime scene properly. In addition, the class will cover advanced topics such as bloodstain pattern analysis and latent fingerprinting. This course is designed for students who have already completed the introductory course and are looking to gain a more comprehensive understanding of crime scene investigation.
Laser Scanning and Mapping - 24 to 40 hours
If you are interested in crime scene investigation, you should take a laser scanning and mapping training course. This course will teach you how to use laser technology to create accurate 3D models of crime scenes. You will learn how to operate the equipment, capture data accurately, and interpret the results. The skills you learn in this course will be invaluable if you work as a crime scene investigator.
Shooting Reconstruction - 40 hours
As a crime scene investigator, having the skills to reconstruct a shooting can be invaluable. By piecing together the various shooting elements, you can help paint a picture of what happened and potentially identify the shooter. That is why many investigators choose to take a shooting reconstruction course.
In a shooting reconstruction course, you will learn how to identify and diagram various types of evidence, such as spent cartridges and trajectories. You will also learn to use different software programs to create 3D renderings of the shooting scene. These renderings can create virtual walk-throughs of the shooting, which can help train other investigators or in court.
Bloodstain Pattern Analysis - 40 hours
Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) is a scientific discipline that uses bloodstains’ location, distribution, and shape to provide information about the crime scene and reconstruct events. The bloodstains and patterns can tell investigators many things, such as the approximate location of the victim and the type of weapon used. To correctly interpret the bloodstains, investigators must receive specialized training in BPA.
BPA courses are typically offered by law enforcement academies or forensic science programs. The courses cover bloodstain physics, pattern identification, and crime scene reconstruction. Students are given opportunities to practice their skills on mock crime scenes. By the end of the course, students should be able to correctly interpret bloodstain patterns and use them to piece together what happened at a crime scene.
If you are interested in crime scene investigation, you should consider taking a bloodstain pattern analysis course in Texas from Gaziano Forensic Consulting. This course will give you an in-depth understanding of the discipline and cover topics such as blood pattern identification, documentation, and reconstruction. You will also have the opportunity to practice your skills by participating in the many exercises and subsets. The course topics include:
- Introduction to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
- Biology and Characteristics of Blood
- Characteristics of Blood Droplets on Impact
- Limitations of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
- Bloodstain Patterns
- Bloodborne Pathogens
- Physics Relating to Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
- Area of Convergence and Origin
- Bloodstain Pattern Associated Evidence
- Bloodstain Pattern Documentation
- Courtroom Testimony
- Chemical Tools
- Fifteen (15) Exercises and Subsets
Latent Print Development - 24 to 40 hours
One of the essential skills for any crime scene investigator is the ability to develop latent prints. Crime scene personnel can use this process to identify a suspect and rule out individuals who were present at the scene of the crime. There are a variety of methods that can be used to develop latent prints, and crime scene investigators need to be familiar with all of them. The most common practice is powdering, which involves dusting the surface with a fine powder and then lifting the powder using tape. Other methods include fluorescent powders, chemicals, and ninhydrin. To ensure that crime scene investigators can properly develop latent prints, they must receive training in this process. Latent print development courses typically cover the different methods used to develop latent prints and how to choose the appropriate method for each situation. The course will also cover the proper procedures for storing and submitting latent prints for analysis. By taking a latent print development course, crime scene investigators can ensure they are prepared to collect and develop latent prints at crime scenes.
Fingerprint Identification - Basic - 40 hours
Few crime scene investigators are experts at fingerprint identification, but having a basic understanding of how to examine fingerprints can be extremely helpful in determining if a print has evidentiary value. In this course, you will learn about fingerprint classification and how to use this information to identify individuals. While you may not become an expert in fingerprint identification, this course will give you the tools to make sound decisions about the prints you develop at crime scenes.
Crime Scene Photography - 40 hours
Crime scene investigation is a vital part of the criminal justice process, and crime scene photography plays an essential role in documenting evidence. However, taking clear and informative photographs can be challenging, especially in difficult conditions. That is why taking a crime scene photography training course is essential. In these courses, you will learn how to manipulate your camera settings to get the best results in various situations. You will also learn about different types of crime scene photography, such as painting with light and infrared photography. Understanding how to use your camera will help you take clear and helpful photographs that can make a real difference in solving crimes.
If you are a crime scene investigator who wants to improve your photography skills, consider taking a crime scene photography course in Texas from Gaziano Forensic Consulting. This comprehensive course will teach you how to take amazing forensic photographs in any situation. You will learn about camera settings, lighting, and composition, and you will practice photographing diverse types of crime scenes. With this training, you will be able to capture clear and informative crime scene photos that can help solve crimes. The course topics include:
- Photography Basics
- Camera Structure
- Reciprocity Comprehension
- Photographing a Crime Scene
- Exposure Variables – Shutter Speed, Aperture, Ambient Light, and ISO
- Electronic Flash Variables
- Focus, Lenses, and Filters
- Depth of Field
- Infrared, Ultraviolet, and Fluorescence Photography
- Chemiluminescence Photography – Lumiscene and Luminol
- Injury Photography
- Photographing the Deceased
- Painting with Light and Low Light Photography
- Roadmapping – Bloodstain Pattern Documentation and Photography
- Bullet Trajectory Photography – Rods and Lasers
- Officer-Involved Shooting Photography
- Photographing Vehicles
- Various Types of Evidence – e.g., Dust Impressions, Tire Marks
- Twenty-one (21) Practical Exercises and Associated Subsets
Forensic Skeletal Recovery - 40 hours
A forensic skeletal recovery course covers various topics related to identifying and analyzing human remains. Students in the class will learn about forensic anthropology, which studies human bones and teeth to identify them. They will also learn about taphonomy, the study of how bodies decompose, and how this can be used to interpret forensic evidence. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of how to excavate and recover human remains, as well as how to interpret the data from these gravesites. The course will also cover the principles of DNA analysis and how this can be used in forensic investigations. Students who complete a forensic skeletal recovery course will comprehensively understand all aspects of forensic science related to human remains.
Death Investigation - 24 to 40 hours
A death investigation course for crime scene personnel can help you understand the pathology and trauma of the decedent. Such a course can teach you about the different types of death, the difference between natural and unnatural causes, and how to investigate a death scene. You will also learn about the autopsy process and how to collect and preserve evidence. In addition, you will understand the psychological impact of death on families and loved ones. By taking such a course, you will be better prepared to handle death investigations professionally and compassionately.
Post-Blast Investigation - 40 hours
A post-blast investigation is a specialized crime scene investigation conducted after an explosion. This type of investigation aims to determine the cause of the blast and collect evidence that can be used to identify the person or persons responsible for the explosion. Post-blast investigations are typically conducted by teams of specially trained investigators with experience working with explosives. These investigators often use various techniques to collect evidence from the explosion scene, including mapping the blast site, collecting debris samples, and interviewing witnesses. In some cases, investigators may also use aerial photography and drones to examine the crime scene.
Forensic Fire Death Investigation - 40 hours
A forensic fire death investigation course discusses the changes that occur to the human body during and after exposure to fire and heat. The course covers topics such as fire scenes, fire behavior, fire patterns, fire Investigation, and post-mortem fire changes. It teaches students how to process and photograph fire scenes and identify and document fire patterns and fire-related injuries. The course helps students understand the changes that occur to the human body during and after exposure to fire and heat.
Conclusion
Crime scene investigator training courses are essential for those looking to enter this field. The courses covered in this blog provide a comprehensive overview of the various aspects of crime scene investigation, from forensic photography to post-blast investigations. By taking these courses, crime scene investigators will be better equipped to manage any crime scene and collect evidence to help solve the case.
