Often, the solution to a crime is found in fine, scientific details easily missed by untrained eyes. To provide and hone skills in evidence identification, collection and preservation for law enforcement investigators, the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training provides training through the Kentucky Criminalistics Academy (KCA).
The 400-hour forensics program is divided between two five-week blocks taught in consecutive years. The first phase, the Crime Scene Technician Course, includes work in basic crime scene processing, digital photography, advanced latent fingerprint development, forensic mapping, digital evidence collection, case preparation and court testimony.
During the second phase, students will delve into intense, scene documentation utilizing unmanned aerial platforms, shooting reconstruction, bloodstain pattern identification and documentation, and how to properly document and process a bomb/improvised explosive device scene instructed by a agents from the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives(ATF) agency. Students will also visit the Forensic Anthropology Center in Tennessee to learn about human bones and how to locate, map and excavate clandestine graves.
The bloodstain pattern portion of the course is taught utilizing human blood obtained from the Kentucky Blood Center. Protective equipment and full blood-borne pathogen safety techniques are followed.
KCA is primarily taught at DOCJT in Richmond. Lodging is available and optional for attendants. Meals must be provided by the participant’s employing agency.
PREREQUISITES FOR THE KENTUCKY CRIMINALISTICS ACADEMY
Be hired by a law enforcement agency in Kentucky as an investigator, detective or a crime scene technician.
Have approval from employing agency chief to attend the academy.
KCA phase I is a prerequisite for phase II.
ITEMS TO BRING TO KENTUCKY CRIMINALISTICS ACADEMY
Tyveck coveralls
Work gloves
Hard hat
APPLY TO KENTUCKY CRIMINALISTICS ACADEMY
After receiving approval from their agency, a prospective participant must have the employing agency’s training coordinator upload their application in LETRS at the time of registration to be considered for the class. The link to the application is located under “Need Info” on the right side of the page in LETRS.
Applications will be evaluated for approval by DOCJT staff involved with KCA instruction.