Crime scene training is required for any position in the law enforcement field. The options include front-line police officer, crime scene investigator, and forensic science investigator. The term crime scene is used to describe a location where there is physical evidence of a crime. Although it can refer to non-physical crimes, the vast majority of crime scenes are related to physical assaults, homicides, robberies, or damage to property. There are four main aspects of crime scene training: academic course work, investigation techniques, practical skill application, and written communication.
Crime screen training involves a significant amount of academic course work or book learning. The material required for this field includes biology, human anatomy, chemistry, bio-safety procedures, hazardous materials, law, and human psychology. Most of this material is actually background information required in the job. As such, memorization and recitation are skills that are relied on quite heavily in this program. Accuracy in numerical values and facts is essential, requiring both discipline and attention to detail.
Investigating techniques taught during crime scene training programs include enhanced observation, documentation, and review of personal biases. Interviewing, questioning, and data collection are also important skills. In order to learn and absorb these investigation techniques, candidates engage in mock investigations, simulated interviews, and watch videos illustrating different interview techniques.
All crime scene training programs include a job placement or internship section. These courses are the only way to obtain real world experience and exposure to crime scenes. Many people find that the reality of the crime scene is difficult to adjust to. The smell of blood and human bodily fluids, in addition to dirt and other items, can be difficult to shake at the end of the day. All crime scene training programs have counseling services available to assist with the transition from theory to reality.
Communication and written reports are an essential part of any crime scene training program. The reports provided by the crime scene investigator are used by law enforcement, lawyers, judges, and other crime scene investigators. Learning how to communicate clearly, concisely, and exactly is a skill that is learned in this type of program. The instructors invest a significant amount of time in correcting English grammar, sentence structure, formatting, and spelling.
Crime scene training is an intense program, requiring a combination of intellect, focus, determination, and a strong stomach. It is not uncommon for people to transfer out of a crime scene program into law or law enforcement programs. Talk to your admissions counselor to determine which courses are transferable into the new program.