CJC-FRN7851 - Understanding the Value of Trace Evidence

Course Description

This 40 hour online training class is designed for both experienced Detectives and Investigators as well as new police officers and First Responders. The class introduces main areas of trace evidence in order to be identifiable in photos and videos and a description as to how it is found at different types of crime scenes. The collection and identification is also covered, along with unique case histories that will re-enforce the experienced investigator on what is value and what may be missed in making a good criminal case. Modules will cover explosives, firearms, tool marks, blood, fluids, hair, glass, shoe prints, DNA and much more. The importance of trace evidence cannot be overemphasized.  Awareness of this type of evidence can be critical to an investigation; training and experience are essential to maximize the value of this type of physical evidence. 

Course Outline

1. Module 1
   • Types of Trace Evidence
   • Crime Scene Management
   • History and Unique Cases
   • Types of Evidence found at Crime Scenes
   • The Search
   • New Technology
   • Collection and Transfer Issues
2. Module 2
   • Firearms
   • Tool marks
   • Impressions
3. Module 3
   • Glass
   • Physical Fracture Matches
4. Module 4
   • Fingerprints
   • Shoe Prints
   • Tire Prints
5. Module 5
   • Explosives
6. Module 6
   • Questioned Documents
7. Module 7
   • Paint
8. Module 8
   • Wounds
9. Module 9
   • Trace DNA
10. Module 10
    • Blood and Fluids
11. Module 11
    • Dust and Dirt
12. Module 12
    • Bite Marks
13. Module 13
    • Hair and Fibers
14. Module 14
    • Deceased Victims
    • Transfer Issues

Learner Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of this course, the student will be able to complete the following:

• Identify ways trace evidence can become more integral and more important to the success of a criminal investigation.
• Learn how to better preserve and package different types of trace evidence
• Recognize and identify key trace evidence at a crime scene.
• Improve the investigators overall skills due to his increased knowledge of trace evidence and his awareness in looking for it.

Notes

Method of Instruction: PowerPoint, Discussion, Videos, and Articles

Evaluation: Class Participation, Quizzes and Final Exam