AJS 204 - Criminal Investigations

3 Credits, 3 Contact Hours
3 lecture periods 0 lab periods

Fundamentals of modern criminal investigation. Includes procedures and skills in search and investigation, conduct at the crime scene, collection and preservation of evidence, developing sources of information, preparation of cases for court prosecution, and report-writing requirements for administration and court use.

Prerequisite(s): AJS 115

Course Learning Outcomes

Use interpersonal skills (rapport, guided conversation & elicitation techniques and motivational interview skills) in interviews. Competency 1.2
Accurately and thoroughly document a crime scene with field notes, photos, sketches, measurements, logs, evidence collection, requests for support, and reports. Competency 3.1
Determine the theory of a crime, elements of the crime to be proved, solvability factors and security concerns. Competency 3.2
Conduct a follow-up investigation to include research, surveillance and use of databases. Competency 3.3

Outline:

Historical Origins of Criminal Investigation
1. Instrumentation
2. Detection
3. Phases of an investigation
4. Identification of suspects
Note-taking and Reporting
1. Function
2. Purpose
3. Contents
Interviews and Interrogation
1. Admissions
2. Confessions
3. Written statements
4. Methods
Sources of Information
1. Informant
2. Methods
3. Uses
Investigative Procedures
1. Burglary
2. Robbery
3. Arson
4. Embezzlement
5. Forgery
6. Homicide and aggravated assault
7. Rape and sexual offenses
8. Larceny
9. Narcotics and drugs
10. Explosives
11. Cyber crime
Investigator in Court
1. Procedures for testimony
2. Identification by witnesses
Crime Scene Technology
1. Photographing and videotaping
2. Plotting method
3. Alternative light sources
4. Fingerprints
5. Impressions
6. Tracing materials
7. Detecting dyes
8. DNA profiling
9. Geographic profiling