Course

Course Summary
Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
TEEX-0287
Organization's ID:
FSA100
Organization:
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service
Location:
Classroom-based
Length:
80 hours
Dates Offered:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Lower-Division Baccalaureate 3 criminal investigations
Description

Objective:

The course objective is to educate law enforcement and civilians who are newly assigned or have limited experience in crime scene processing and laboratory technicians who process latent print evidence. Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to demonstrate the ability to properly investigate and process a crime scene, including fingerprint processing techniques.

Learning Outcomes:

  • summarize the legal aspects of a crime scene search
  • explain how to conduct the three primary phases of a crime scene investigation
  • summarize the use of, and demonstrate proficiency in taking, crime scene photographs
  • prepare crime scene sketches
  • identify proper methods for the identification, collection, and preservation of crime scene evidence
  • discuss a process of collecting and preserving potential DNA evidence
  • apply appropriate methods to investigating specific crime scene areas
  • identify proper methods for the identification, collection, and preservation of potential computer or other electronic evidence
  • collect inked prints
  • demonstrate how to use various powders to develop latent prints
  • explain various special processes used to develop latent prints on abnormal/difficult surfaces
  • explain various chemicals, dyes, and non-powder processes used to develop latent prints
  • demonstrate how to use various chemicals to develop latent prints in blood
  • conduct an investigation of a simulated crime scene

General Topics:

  • Legal aspects of crime scene searches
  • Investigating a crime scene
  • Photography
  • Sketching
  • Handling crime scene evidence
  • Handling DNA evidence
  • Investigating specific crime scenes
  • Handling electronic evidence
  • Fingerprint evidence
  • Powder processing
  • Difficult surfaces
  • Chemicals, dyes, and non-powder processes
  • Blood print processing
  • Simulated crime scene investigations
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Audio Visual Materials
  • Case Studies
  • Classroom Exercise
  • Discussion
  • Laboratory
  • Lectures
  • Practical Exercises

Methods of Assessment:

  • Case Studies
  • Examinations
  • Performance Rubrics (Checklists)
  • Presentations
  • Quizzes

Minimum Passing Score:

70%
Supplemental Materials