Catalog Description

Prerequisite: Completion of POST Basic Academy
Hours: 16 lecture
Description: Fine tune the skills obtained in the Basic Academy regarding crime scene investigations for the patrol officer. Topics include fingerprinting, chain of evidence, videographing and the recognition of evidence and the importance of recording placement. (pass/no pass grading) (not degree applicable)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Explain the role of a crime scene investigator.
  • CSLO #2: Demonstrate basic crime scene investigation techniques.
  • CSLO #3: Demonstrate various evidence-collection techniques, following the proper chain-of-custody.

Effective Term

Fall 2017

Course Type

Credit - Nondegree-applicable

Contact Hours

16

Outside of Class Hours

32

Total Student Learning Hours

48

Course Objectives

1. Explain the role of the crime scene investigator;
2. Demonstrate the techniques of starting a crime scene investigation;
3. Illustrate a crime scene through the development of a crime scene sketch;
4. Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of various methods of crime scene recording;
5. Outline a proper chain of custody; and
6. Demonstrate proper techniques for recovering latent fingerprints.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
      • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
        • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

          Articulation Information

            Methods of Evaluation

            • Problem Solving Examinations
              • Example: Students create an accurate crime scene sketch depicting relative locations of key pieces of evidence.
            • Skill Demonstrations
              • Example: Students will demonstrate the ability to develop and preserve latent fingerprints at a mock crime scene.

            Repeatable

            No

            Methods of Instruction

            • Lecture/Discussion

            Lecture:

            1. Using PPT and sample sketches, Instructor will explain and demonstrate various methods for recording a crime scene. Students will demonstrate how to record a crime scene.

            Typical Out of Class Assignments

            Reading Assignments

            1. Read selected instructor-provided handouts pertaining to crime scene analysis. 2. Read instructor-provided handouts describing proper ways of recovering fingerprints.

            Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

            1. Complete a sketch of a basic crime scene. 2. List the basic latent fingerprint development processes given different surfaces and environmental conditions.

            Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

            Required Materials

              Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.

              Instructor-compiled materials.