SYLLABUS FOR CJSA 1342Criminal InvestigationSemester Hours Credit: 3

Face-to-Face Lecture Hours: 24(plus 4 hours In-Class for Exams)Online Blackboard Hours: 20

Course Dates/Day/Times: June 4th –July 30th

Face-to-Face Lectures on Wednesdays

Time: 1830 hours to 2130 hours

Classroom: Room 312- Education Center on Panzer

Instructor: Debi Spencer

Office Hours: By appointment

Instructor Email: debispencer.mdi@gmail.com

INSTRUCTOR BIOGRAPHYDebi Spencer has over 8 years of hands on field experience in scene investigation. Her career started in Nevada working for the Coroner‘s Office in Las Vegas and Reno and then for the Medical Examiner in the Commonwealth of Virginia. She has investigated over 1500 death cases and responded to around 400 scenes of which approximately 60 cases were homicides or suspicious deaths. From 2011 to 2013, she worked on the Project Alert Biometrics Team for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as a consultant on long term unidentified child remains cases. She is a member of the American Academy of Forensic Science, Canadian Society of Forensic Sciences, and Society for Medicolegal Death Investigators. She is presently a member of the subcommittee for decedent identification for the Scientific Working Group for Medicolegal Death Investigation. Debi is registry certified with the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators

I. INTRODUCTION

A. This course will provide the student a study of investigative theory, the collection and preservation of evidence, sources of information, concepts of interviewing and interrogation, the use of forensic sciences, and case and trial preparation.

B. This course is not chronologically dependent upon other Law Enforcement courses. It is a required course for the Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice degree program.

C. This course is occupationally related and serves in preparation for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, and corrections.

D. Prerequisite(s): (None)

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II. LEARNING OUTCOMES

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

A. Define the goals and objectives of criminal investigation.

B. Demonstrate ability to conduct proper crime scene investigations.

C. Illustrate the use of forensic science for various statutory offenses.

D. Organize the criminal case including field notes, reports, crime scene activities, and other mandatory documentation.

III. INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

A. The instructional materials identified for this course are viewable throughhttp://www.ctcd.edu/im/im_main.asp

The textbook for this course is Criminal Investigation, 10th Edition by Christine Hess Orthmann & Kären M. Hess (ISBN-10: 1133018920 / ISBN-13: 9781133018926)

B. References:

1. Ferdico, John N, Henry F. Fradella, Christopher D. Totten, Criminal Procedure, 11th Ed, Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning, 2013.

2. Bohm, Robert M. and Keith N. Haley, Introduction to Criminal Justice, McGraw-Hill, 2010.

IV. COURSE REQUIREMENTS

A. Your first responsibility is scholarship. The grade you receive for this course will not be the grade of the instructor, but rather the grade you and you alone make.

B. You should attend class regularly and be prepared to participate in classroom discussions and to take unannounced quizzes relating to text assignments and lecture material presented from the beginning of the course. Please refer to ‘Class Attendance and Course Progress’ under the Academic Policies section in our current CTC Course Catalog: http://www.ctcd.edu/catintro.htm

C. You are encouraged to give your best effort throughout the course. From the beginning, you should plan for a steady, organized, and continuous effort, which in the long run will prove more effective for your final grade than a last minute crash-cram policy. Your course grade is not determined solely by exam grade. Such factors as class participation, initiative, attendance, and individual research papers will be considered in grade computation.

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D. From time to time, special library and/or outside assignments will be made to members of the class individually and/or in groups. You are expected to read all assignments and fulfill your responsibilities to any group assignment.

E. You are expected to read all assigned material and bring your textbook to class. Keep informed on all assignments, especially after an absence.

F. Good class notes are indispensable for earning a good grade, since both the material assigned and that discussed in class will be the basis for examination material.

G. Scholastic Honesty: All students are required and expected to maintain the highest standards of scholastic honesty in the preparation of all coursework and during examinations. The following are considered examples of scholastic dishonesty:

Plagiarism: The taking of passages from the writing of others without giving proper credit to the sources.

Collusion: Using another’s work as one’s own, or working together with another person in the preparation of work, unless such joint preparation is specifically approved in advance by the instructor.

Cheating: Giving or receiving information on examinations.

H. Special Work: A term paper or other project, per requirements of the instructor, will be required. The subject must be appropriate for the course material. Check with the instructor when you have made a selection. The value is indicated in the semester grade computation and has considerable weight on your final average.

V. COURSE FORMAT – Hybrid with BLACKBOARD

This course has been developed as a hybrid course. Hybrid courses combine face-to-face classroom instruction with assignments and interaction with instructor via Blackboard. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that they have access to Blackboard and that they are familiar with the contents and assignments. It is also the student’s responsibility to log into Blackboard at least once a week to ‘attend’ the online class portion and to participate in the online Blackboard discussions and posts. Failure to do so will result in attendance mark-down and any grades related to missed weekly discussion participation posts. Refer to the course outline to view how many hours in each week you should be working on the online portion of this course. The course will meet for eight weeks to include once a week for a three-hour face-to-face session. In addition, instructional strategies will include weekly online discussion boards to develop case studies and group collaboration/projects to cover the other three hours of instruction per week.

In addition to the three hour face- to-face class, in week 4 and 8 there will be a 2 hour midterm and final scheduled.

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VI. EXAMINATIONS AND PAPER

A. There will be two examinations and a written paper or project as follows:

1. Mid-term exam in the 4th week of classes on Tuesday July 1st.2. Final exam in the final week on Wednesday July 30th.3. Investigation Report Project due on Wednesday July 16th.

B. A student must be present for all examinations. Students who know in advance that they will be absent from an examination due to valid reasons must arrange to take an early examination. Unexpected absences due to illness or extenuating circumstances will require the student to see the instructor about individual make-up work.

C. Students without excused absences will be given a zero for the missed examination.

D. Examinations will consist of both objective (true/false, multiple choice, fill in-the-blank, and matching) and subjective (short answer and essay) questions. Students must be able to communicate both orally and in written form, thus some questions requiring the composition and writing of an essay answer will be required.

E. The written component will be an Investigation Report Project where the student will demonstrate the knowledge acquired throughout the course by reviewing a crime scene scenario and will write a complete criminal investigation report of 3 different key components in a criminal investigation to include the first responding officer, the lead detective or criminal investigator and the crime scene investigator. Well written investigative reports are one of the most critical skills law enforcement officers and investigators need to have to effectively communicate their observations, interviews and describe physical evidence. These investigative reports are reviewed by fellow investigators, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and often families as well as other professional agencies. A poorly written report can be an embarrassment to the investigator and the law enforcement agency. However, most importantly it can directly influence the outcome of criminal cases.

VII. SEMESTER GRADE COMPUTATIONS

The final grade in this course will be based on the following:

Attendance & in-class participation 50 pointsDiscussion board weekly assignments 150 pointsInvestigative Report 300 pointsMidterm exam 250 pointsFinal exam 250 pointsTotal possible points: 1000

POINTS GRADES900-1000 A800-899 B700-799 C600-699 D

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less than 600 F

VIII. NOTES AND ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FROM COURSE INSTRUCTOR

A. Tuition refunds are made only in the case of class cancellation or official and timely withdrawal from CTC or from a course. Please refer to the current course catalog for more details, at http://europe.ctcd.edu/library/catalog.php.

B. GoArmyEd students should contact their education counselor before withdrawing and are required to withdraw through the GoArmyEd portal.

Please note: a military withdrawal does not override CTC’s grading policy. For self-pay students, refunds are computed from the date the Application for Withdrawal or Refund is filed with the CTC Field Representative or designated Student Services Officer. Special conditions apply to students who receive federal, state, and/or institutional financial aid.

Tuition and fees paid directly to the Institution by the Veterans Administration, Title IV (Financial Aid Programs, a sponsor, donor, or scholarship shall be refunded to the source rather than directly to the students.

C. Course Withdrawals, Student Responsibilities : It is the student’s responsibility to officially withdraw from a course. The instructor cannot initiate a withdrawal based upon a student’s request. Rather, students must initiate the withdrawal with the designated Education Center Representative, through the CTC Field Representative or the Student Services Officer for that region.

Applications for Withdrawal will be accepted at any time before the completion of 75% of the course, after which time the student will be assigned an “FN”- “Failure for Non-attendance.”

D. Incomplete / Course in Progress Grade Policy : An “IP” or “Incomplete” grade may be assigned by an instructor if a student has made satisfactory progress in a course with the exception of a major quiz, final exam, or other project. The “IP” grade may also be assigned based on circumstances beyond a student’s control, such as personal illness, death in the immediate family, or military orders. Notice of absences, with supporting documentation, may be required by the instructor. The instructor makes the final decision concerning the granting of the incomplete grade. With an “Incomplete” grade, students are required to complete a set amount of work before the instructor will submit an official letter grade. This date can be determined by the instructor but must be within 45 days of the course end date. After completion of the work the instructor can then change the grade of “IP” to the appropriate letter grade. If this work is not completed by the specified date the instructor will change the grade to “F.”

E. Cellular phones, beepers, and other electronic devices will be turned off while the student is in the classroom or laboratory unless the student is using the device for class purposes. No texting or social networking is allowed during class.

F. Instructor Discretion : The instructor reserves the right of final decision in course requirements.

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G. Civility : Individuals are expected to be cognizant of what a constructive educational experience is and respectful of those participating in a learning environment. Failure to do so can result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

IX. COURSE OUTLINE

Note: The instructor has the right to change the course schedule. Any changes will be announced in class. If the student misses a class period and changes are announced, it is the student’s responsibility to receive the missed information from a classmate or the instructor.

Hybrid courses combine face to face classroom instruction with assignments and interaction via the internet. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that they have access to internet so that they may email the instructor. The class is broken down into eight sessions. See below for course outline.

Session 1- Week of June 2, 2014: Intro and Chapters 1, 2 & 3 i.  Class will meet face to face June 4, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for the first two weeks: 3iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday June 15th at 2359 hours (European time)iv. NOTE: There will be no class on June 11th. You will have the first two weeks to read the textbook, familiarize yourself with Blackboard, do the first week of online assignments and readings and start reading for week 2.

A. Unit One: INTRODUCTION

Chapter 1: Criminal Investigation: An Overview

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Describe what criminal investigation is.b. Define the major goals of criminal investigation.c. Explain the basic functions investigators perform.d. Describe what effective investigators do.e. Describe which characteristics are important in investigators.f. Explain who usually arrives at a crime scene first.g. Discuss what should be done initially at a crime scene.h. Describe what to do if a suspect is still at a crime scene or has recently fled

the scene.i. Explain how the crime scene and evidence are protected and for how long.j. Report on the responsibilities that are included in the preliminary

investigation.k. Define the meaning and importance of res gestae statements.l. Describe how to determine whether a crime has been committed.m. Discuss who is responsible for solving crimes.n. Explain with whom investigators must relate.o. Discuss how to avoid civil lawsuits.

2. Learning Activities:a. Discuss course requirements and activities as contained in the syllabusb. Classroom lecture/discussionc. Reading Assignment: Chapter 1

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d. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

B. Unit Two: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 2: Documenting the Crime Scene: Note Taking, Photographing and Sketching

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Explain why notes are important in an investigation.b. Demonstrate when to take notes.c. Discuss what to record.d. Describe characteristics of effective notes.e. Decide which notes to retain and where to file them.f. Discuss purposes of crime scene photography.g. Compare and contrast advantages and disadvantages of crime scene

photography and videography.h. Decide on proper photographic equipment needed.i. Determine what to photograph at a crime scene and in what sequence.j. Describe technical errors to avoid.k. Compare and contrast the types of photography used in criminal

investigations.l. Illustrate the basic rules to which evidence photographs must adhere.m. Explain the various purposes of crime scene sketches.n. Identify what evidence to sketch.o. Determine what materials are needed to make rough sketches.p. Write the steps to take in making a rough sketch.q. Differentiate between the different plotting methods used in sketches.r. Clarify when a sketch or a scale drawing is admissible in court.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 2c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

C. Unit Three: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 3: Writing Effective Reports

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Explain why reports are important to an investigation.b. Describe how reports are used.c. Discuss who reads the reports.d. Summarize the common problems which occur in many police reports.e. Explain whether form or content is more important.f. Describe characteristics of effective investigative reports.g. Compare how to differentiate among facts, inferences and opinions. h. Explain why reports should be well written.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussion

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b. Reading assignment: Chapter 3c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Session 2- Week of June 16, 2014: Chapters 4, 5 & 6 i. Class will meet face to face June 18, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 3iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday June 22nd at 2359 hours (European time)

D. Unit Four: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 4: Searches

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Identify which constitutional amendment restricts investigative searches.b. Outline what is required for an effective search.c. Define what basic restriction is placed on all searches.d. Describe what the exclusionary rule is and how it affects investigators.e. Clarify what the preconditions and limitations of a legal search are.f. Discuss when a warrantless search is justified.g. Describe what precedents are established by the Weeks, Mapp, Terry, Chimel,

Carroll and Chambers decisions. h. Discuss what a successful crime scene search accomplishes.i. Outline what is included in organizing a crime scene search.j. Explain what physical evidence is.k. Define and compare interior and exterior search patterns.l. Describe whether evidence left in plain view may be lawfully seized and

whether it is admissible in court.m. Describe how to search a vehicle, a suspect and a dead body.n. Outline how to use dogs in searches.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 4c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

E. Unit Five: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 5: Forensics/Physical Evidence

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Describe various methods of processing physical evidence.b. Determine what qualifies as evidence.c. Discuss common errors in collecting evidence.d. Identify evidence.e. Explain what should be recorded in crime scene notes.f. Describe various methods of packaging and transporting evidence to a

department or a laboratory.g. Discuss methods of evidence storage.h. Describe how to ensure admissibility of physical evidence in court.i. Describe methods of evidence disposal.

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j. Identify the types of evidence most commonly found in criminal investigations and how to collect, identify and package each type.

k. Explain where fingerprints can be found and how they should be preserved.l. Describe what can and cannot be determined from fingerprints, DNA,

bloodstains and hairs.m. Define DNA profiling.n. Explain how the identification of blood and hair can be useful.o. Describe where shoe and tire impressions can be found and how they should

be preserved.p. Illustrate how to preserve tools that might have been used in the crime, as well

as the marks they made.q. Describe what a tool mark should be compared with during forensic analysis.r. Explain how to mark and care for weapons used in crimes.s. Describe how to preserve such things as glass fragments, soil samples, safe

insulation material, rope, tapes, liquids and documents.t. Identify the kind of evidence UV light can help discover.u. Describe what evidence to collect in hit-and-run cases.v. Explain what can be determined from human skeletal remains.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 5c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

F. Unit Six: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 6: Obtaining Information & Intelligence

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Discuss what a sources-of-information file is and what it contains.b. Explain the goal of interviewing and interrogation.c. List the characteristics of an effective interviewer or interrogator.d. Discuss how to improve communication between the investigator, victims,

witnesses or suspects.e. Explain the emotional barriers to communication.f. Outline what two requirements are needed to obtain information.g. Clarify the difference between direct and indirect questions, and when to use

each.h. Describe techniques that are likely to assist recall as well as uncover lies.i. Explain when and in what order individuals are interviewed.j. Describe the various sources of information that are available to investigators.k. Discuss the basic approaches to use in questioning reluctant interviewees.l. Explain what the Miranda warning is and when to give it.m. Outline the two requirements of a place for conducting interrogations.n. Discuss what techniques to use in an interrogation.o. Explain what third-degree tactics are and describe their place in interrogation.p. Describe what restrictions are placed on obtaining a confession.q. Clarify what significance a confession has in an investigation.r. Discuss what to consider when questioning a juvenile.s. Explain what a polygraph is and what its role in investigation and the

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t. Identify the differences between information and intelligence.

2. Unit Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 6d. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Session 3- Week of June 23, 2014: Chapters 7, 8 & 9i.  Class will meet face to face June 25, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 3iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday June 29th at 2359 hours (European time)

G. Unit Seven: BASIC INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

Chapter 7: Identifying and Arresting Suspects

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Define and compare the differences between field identifications and show-up

identifications.b. Discuss what rights a suspect has during field (show-up) identification and

know what case established these rights.c. Describe how a suspect is developed.d. Relate how to assist witnesses in describing a suspect or a vehicle.e. Clarify when mug shots are used.f. Describe the four basic means of identifying a suspect.g. Explain what photographic identification processes are and how to use them

properly.h. Explain how a proper lineup is created and how it is used.i. Define the legal rights suspects have regarding participation in a lineup and

relate which cases established these rights.j. Describe whether it is advisable to have the same person make both a

photographic and lineup identification.k. Describe when surveillance is used and what the objectives are.l. Define the different types of surveillances.m. Explain when wiretapping is legal and identify the precedent case.n. Describe the objectives of undercover assignments and what precautions

should be taken when going undercover.o. Describe the objectives of a police raid.p. Clarify how the police establish the legal requirements for staging a raid.q. Discuss the precautions that should be taken when conducting a raid.r. Define when a lawful arrest can be made.s. Identify the probable cause that must exist for believing that a suspect has

committed a crime.t. Define what constitutes an arrest.u. Describe how officers leave themselves open to civil liability when making

arrests.v. Clarify when and how much force is justified when making an arrest.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussion

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b. Reading assignment: Chapter 7c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor.

H. Unit Eight: INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Chapter 8: Death Investigations

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Identify a basic requirement in a homicide investigation.b. Outline the four categories of death.c. Define and classify homicide, murder and manslaughter.d. Explain what degrees of murder are frequently specified.e. Describe how excusable and justifiable homicide differ.f. Explain the significance of premeditation.g. Explain the special challenges presented by a homicide investigation.h. Identify the first priority in a homicide investigation.i. Describe how to establish that death has occurred.j. Explain what physical evidence is usually found in homicides.k. Outline what information and evidence can be obtained from a victim.l. Explain how to identify an unknown homicide victim.m. Report the different factors that can aid in estimating time of death.n. Explain the effect water has on a dead body.o. Outline the information provided by the medical examiner or coroner.p. Describe the most frequent causes of unnatural death and how to determine

whether a death is a suicide or a homicide.q. Explain why it is important to determine a motive in homicide investigations.r. Outline the similarities that exist between school and workplace mass

murders.s. Describe how the conventional wisdom about homicide has changed in some

departments.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 8c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

I. Unit Nine: INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Chapter 9: Assault, Domestic Violence, Stalking and Elder Abuse

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Define what constitutes assault.b. Compare how simple assault differs from aggravated assault.c. Explain when force is legal.d. Articulate the elements of simple assault, aggravated (felonious) assault and

attempted assault.e. Describe what special challenges are posed by an assault investigation.f. Compare how to prove the elements of both simple and aggravated assault.g. Describe what evidence is likely to be at the scene of an assault.

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h. Explain what offenses might be categorized as separate crimes, to aid in data collection.

i. Define what constitutes domestic violence.j. Explain what constitutes stalking.k. Describe what constitutes elder abuse, and how prevalent elder abuse is.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 9c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructord. Review for Midterm Exam on Chapters 1-9

Session 4- Week of June 30, 2014: Chapters 10 & 11i.  Class will meet face to face July 2, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 2iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday July 6th at 2359 hours (European time)iv. MIDTERM will be this week and is tentatively set on Tuesday July 1st from 1900-2100. Location will be provided once date and time confirmed.

J. Unit Ten: INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Chapter 10: Sex Offenses

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Identify the key distinction between human trafficking and human smuggling.b. Describe how sex offenses are classified.c. Define the elements of rape and how it is classified.d. Identify the elements of sexual assault.e. Outline the special challenges that exist in investigating sex offenses.f. Explain what modus operandi factors are important in investigating a sexual

assault.g. Describe what type of evidence is often obtained in sex offense investigations.h. Explain what evidence to seek in date rape cases.i. Define blind reporting and its advantages.j. Identify agencies that can assist in a sexual assault investigation.k. Clarify what is generally required to obtain a conviction in sexual assault

cases.l. Explain whether recent laws have reduced or increased the penalties for

sexual assault and why.m. Define which three federal statutes form the basis for sex offender registries.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 10c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

K. Unit Eleven: INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Chapter 11: Crimes Against Children

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1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Describe the crimes that are frequently committed against children.b. Identify the four common types of maltreatment.c. Explain the most common form of child maltreatment and how serious it is.d. Identify the biggest single cause of death of young children.e. Discuss the effects of child abuse.f. Identify the two leading causes of child abuse.g. Describe the three components typically included in child abuse/neglect laws.h. Explain the challenges involved in investigating crimes against children.i. Clarify when a child should be taken into protective custody.j. Discuss which factors to consider in interviewing child victims.k. Determine whether children are generally truthful when talking about abuse.l. Describe who usually reports crimes against children.m. Explain what types of evidence are important in child neglect or abuse cases.n. Identify what things can indicate child neglect or abuse.o. Describe the types of sex rings that exist in the United States related to child

abuse and sexual exploitation.p. Explain how a pedophile might typically react to being discovered.q. Describe what the Child Protection Act involves.r. Describe the three law enforcement approaches that are models to combat

child sexual exploitation.s. Discuss the challenges presented by a missing child report.t. Identify the most common type of child abduction.u. Define the AMBER Alert program.v. Discuss how crimes against children can be prevented.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 11c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Session 5- Week of July 7, 2014: Chapters 12, 13 & 14i.  Class will meet face to face July 9, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 3iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday July 13th at 2359 hours (European time)

L. Unit Twelve:INVESTIGATING VIOLENT CRIMES

Chapter 12: Robbery

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Define robbery.b. Classify robberies.c. Define home invaders.d. Define carjacking.e. List the types of robbery in which the FBI and state officials become involved.f. Identify the elements of the crime of robbery.g. Describe the factors to consider in responding to a robbery-in-progress call.h. Explain the special challenges that are posed by a robbery investigation.i. Explain how to prove each element of robbery.

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j. Identify what descriptive information is needed to identify suspects and vehicles.

k. Describe the modus operandi information to obtain in a robbery case.l. Identify what physical evidence can link a suspect with a robbery.m. Define burglary.n. Identify the basic difference between burglary and robbery.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 12 c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

M. Unit ThirteenINVESTIGATING CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

Chapter 13: Burglary

a. Explain the two basic classifications of burglary.b. Identify three elements that are present in laws defining burglary.c. Describe what additional elements can be included in burglary.d. Explain what determines the severity of a burglary.e. Identify the elements of the crime of possession of burglary tools.f. Explain how to proceed to a burglary scene and what to do on arrival.g. Describe the most frequent means of entry to commit burglary.h. Explain how safes are broken into.i. Describe what physical evidence is often found at a burglary scene.j. Identify what modus operandi factors are important in burglary.k. Explain where to search for stolen property.l. Define the elements of the offense of receiving stolen goods.m. Describe what measures may be taken to prevent burglary.

2. Learning Activities:a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 13c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

N. Unit Fourteen: INVESTIGATING CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

Chapter 14: Larceny/Theft, Fraud and White-Collar Crime

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Differentiate larceny from burglary and robbery.b. Describe the elements of larceny/theft.c. Compare the two major categories of larceny and describe how to determine

them.d. Describe what legally must be done with found property.e. Define the common types of larceny.f. Discuss whether a shoplifter must leave the premises before being

apprehended.g. Explain when the FBI would become involved in a larceny/theft investigation.h. Define what fraud is and how it differs from larceny/theft.

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i. Discuss the common means of committing fraud.j. Clarify the common types of check fraud.k. Explain what the elements of the crime of larceny by debit or credit card are.l. Describe what form of larceny/theft headed the FTC’s top 10 consumer fraud

complaints in 2006.m. Define white-collar crime and explain what offenses are often included in this

crime category.n. Discuss the FBI’s two-pronged approach to investigating money laundering.o. Describe the main problems in prosecuting environmental crime.p. Explain how the monetary loss value of certain thefts, frauds or other

economic crimes influences which agency has jurisdiction over a criminal investigation.

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 14 c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Session 6 - Week of July 14, 2014: Chapters 15, 16 & 17 i. Class will meet face to face July 16, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 3iii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday July 20th at 2359 hours (European time)iv. Investigation Report Project due in class on July 16th.

O. Unit Fifteen:INVESTIGATING CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

Chapter 15: Motor Vehicle Theft

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Explain what a VIN is and why it is important.b. Identify the five major categories of motor vehicle theft.c. Discuss the elements of the crime of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.d. Explain what types of vehicles are considered “motor vehicles.”e. Define embezzlement of a motor vehicle.f. Explain how the Dyer Act assists in motor vehicle theft investigations.g. Discuss why false reports of auto theft are sometimes made.h. Identify what two agencies can help investigate motor vehicle theft.i. Describe how to improve effectiveness in recognizing stolen vehicles.j. Discuss how to help

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 15c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

P. Unit Sixteen:INVESTIGATING CRIMES AGAINST PROPERTY

Chapter 16: Arson, Bombs and Explosives

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:CJSA 1342

a. Describe how fires are classified.b. Explain what presumption is made when investigating fires.c. Identify the elements of arson.d. Define aggravated and simple arson.e. Detail what degrees of arson the Model Arson Law establishes.f. Explain who is responsible for detecting and investigating arson.g. Describe what special challenges exist in investigating arson.h. Explain what the fire triangle is and why it is important in arson

investigations.i. Discuss what accelerants are and which are most commonly used in arson.j. Identify the common igniters that are used in arson.k. Describe common burn indicators.l. Describe how to determine a fire’s point of origin.m. Explain how fires normally burn.n. Describe what factors indicate the likelihood of arson.o. Discuss when administrative and criminal warrants are issued.p. Explain when a warrant is needed for investigating a fire scene and identify

the precedent case.q. Make a checklist of what to look for when investigating suspected arson of a

vehicle.r. Identify what to pay special attention to when investigating explosions and

bombings

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 16c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Q. Unit Seventeen:OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

Chapter 17: Computer Crime

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Identify the two key characteristics of computer crime.b. Explain how computer crime can be categorized.c. Describe the special challenges that are presented by computer-related

crimes.d. Describe the common protocol for processing a crime scene involving

electronic evidence.e. Explain the basic tenet for first responders at a computer crime scene.f. Discuss how an investigator with a search warrant should execute it in a

computer crime investigation.g. Describe what forms electronic evidence and other computer crime

evidence may take.h. Identify different precautions you should take when handling PC media.i. Explain how electronic evidence should be stored.j. Discuss whether “deleted” data are really deleted.k. Explain whether most cybercrimes against businesses are committed by

insiders or outsiders.l. Define how cybercriminals may be categorized.m. Describe what motivates different types of cybercriminals.

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n. Explain what approach is often required in investigating computer crime.o. Discuss how computer crimes can be prevented.

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 17c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

Session 7- Week of July 21, 2014: Chapters 18, 19 & 20i.  Class will meet face to face July 23, 2014 from 1830 to 2130ii. Required online hours for week: 3ii. Online assignments/projects are due as of Sunday July 27th at 2359 hours (European time)

R. Unit Eighteen:OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

Chapter 18: A Dual Threat: Drug-Related Crime and Organized Crime

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Discuss what act made it illegal to sell or use certain narcotics and dangerous

drugs.b. Describe when it is illegal to use or sell narcotics or dangerous drugs.c. Explain how drugs are commonly classified.d. Describe what drugs are most commonly observed on the street, in the

possession of users and seized in drug raids, and what the most frequent drug arrest is.

e. Explain what the major legal evidence in prosecuting drug use and possession is.

f. Describe what the major legal evidence in prosecuting drug sale and distribution is.

g. Explain when an on-sight arrest can be made for a drug buy.h. Discuss what precautions to take in undercover drug buys and how to avoid a

charge of entrapment.i. Explain what hazards exist in raiding a clandestine drug laboratory.j. Clarify what agency provides unified leadership in combating illegal drug

activities and what its primary emphasis is.k. Describe what the key to reducing our nation’s drug problem is.l. Explain the distinctive characteristics of organized crime and its major

activities.m. Identify what organized crime activities are specifically made crimes by law.n. Outline what crimes organized crime is typically involved in.o. Describe the investigator’s primary role in dealing with the problem of

organized crime.p. Discuss what agencies cooperate in investigating organized crime

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 18c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

S. Unit Nineteen:OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

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Chapter 19: Criminal Activities of Gangs and Other Dangerous Groups

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Analyze whether the gang problem is increasing or decreasing.b. Outline how to classify gangs.c. Describe the types of crimes gangs typically engage in.d. Identify the first step in dealing with a gang problem.e. Describe how to identify gang members.f. Explain what kinds of records to keep on gangs.g. Discuss what special challenges are involved in investigating illegal activities

of gangs.h. Describe what strategies have been used to combat a gang problem.i. Explain two defense strategies that are commonly used by gang members’

lawyers in court.j. Articulate the primary motivation for bias or hate crimes, and identify who is

most frequently targeted in such crimes.k. Discuss what a cult is, and explain a better way to refer to cults.l. Describe what a ritualistic crime is.m. Explain what may be involved in ritualistic crime.n. Identify indicators of ritualistic crimes.o. Describe special challenges involved in investigating ritualistic crimes.

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapters 19c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructor

T. Unit Twenty:OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

Chapter 20: Terrorism and Homeland Security

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Describe what most definitions of terrorism have in common.b. Describe what motivates most terrorist attacks.c. Explain how the FBI classifies terrorist acts.d. Outline what groups are commonly identified as Islamic terrorist

organizations.e. Discuss what domestic terrorist groups exist in the United States.f. Describe the various methods terrorists may use.g. Explain what federal office was established as a result of 9/11.h. Identify the two lead agencies in combating terrorism.i. Describe how the USA PATRIOT Act enhances counterterrorism efforts by

the United States.j. Identify the first line of defense against terrorism in the United States.k. Explain the three-tiered model of al-Qaeda terrorist attacks.l. Identify a key to successfully combating terrorism.m. Describe what the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act authorizes.n. Identify two major concerns related to the war on terrorism.o. Discuss the balances that must be maintained in investigating terrorism.

2. Learning Activities: CJSA 1342

a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 20c. Homework and other assignments designated by the instructord. Investigation Project Due

Session 8- Week of July 28, 2014: Chapter 21i.  Class will meet face to face Tuesday July 29, 2014 from 1830 to 2130 ii. Required online hours for week: 0iii. FINAL will be this week and is tentatively set on Wednesday July 30th from 1900-2100. Location will be provided once date and time confirmed.

U. Unit Twenty-one:OTHER CHALLENGES TO THE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR

Chapter 21: Preparing for and Presenting Cases in Court

1. Unit Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, the student will:a. Identify the most important rule to eradicate fear of testifying in court.b. Outline what to include in the final report.c. Describe the relative importance of the prosecutor in the court system.d. Explain why some cases are not prosecuted.e. Discuss how to prepare a case for court.f. Describe how to review a case.g. Explain what occurs during the pretrial conference.h. Describe the usual sequence in a criminal trial.i. Clarify what the “win” is for an investigator who testifies in court.j. Explain what kinds of statements are inadmissible in court.k. Describe how to testify most effectively.l. Explain when to use notes while testifying.m. Describe what nonverbal elements can influence courtroom testimony

positively and negatively.n. Discuss strategies that can make testifying in court more effective.o. Describe what defense attorney tactics to anticipate.p. Describe the key to testifying during cross-examination.q. Explain how to avoid objections to your testimony.

2. Learning Activities: a. Classroom lecture/discussionb. Reading assignment: Chapter 21c. Review for final examd. Final exam

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