Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Official General Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Official General Catalog [Archived Catalog]

CRJ 230 - Criminal Investigation


Basic principles of investigation as they relate to the collection, preservation, identification and examination of physical evidence.  Techniques for locating and interviewing witnesses and interrogating suspects.

Credits: 4
Hours
3 Class Hours; 3 Laboratory Hours (Additional tuition and fees)
Course Profile
Learning Outcomes of the Course:

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

1.  Identify the different tools of a criminal investigator and explain how they are used and under what circumstances these tools would be used.
2.  Conduct an interview of a “witness” and record the interview through note-taking.
3.  Write a report based on information given to the student that answers the questions:  who, what, when, where, how, and why.
4.  Draw a simple diagram using at least two methods of documentation.
5.  Take crime scene photographs using proper exposure methods and documentation practices.
6.  Demonstrate the acceptable methods for collection of different types of evidence, including glass, hairs and fibers, body fluids, and controlled substances.
7.  Explain the legal requirements for taking statements in interviews and interrogations.
8.  Demonstrate proper documentation and recording techniques for interviews and interrogations.
9.  Identify instruments and technology used in the gathering and analyzing of information, including “spike mikes”, pin hole cameras, and infrared photography.
10.  Identify sources of information, including the Internet, public records, business records, and informants and what those records will reveal.
11.  Demonstrate stationary and moving surveillance techniques.
12.  Identify the various fingerprint patterns and demonstrate methods of collecting fingerprints from smooth, metallic surfaces, from paper, and other surfaces and explain the chemistry involved in each of those techniques.
13.  Explain the basic premise for ballistic and tool mark identification.
14.  Conduct a simple drug identification test and explain the chemistry involved.
15.  Do a simple plaster casting of a footprint.
16.  Explain the processes used in questioned document examination.