BPA 101

IAI Approved

This workshop presents the basics of bloodstain pattern analysis aimed at providing practical skills in identifying and interpreting bloodstain patterns. Along with pattern classification and identification, the workshop will focus on variables that affect stain and pattern formation. Students will have an opportunity to apply these concepts with practical, wet labs to reinforce the main learning objectives throughout the lecture.

Distortion and ACE-V  (4 hours)

IAI Latent/Tenprint Cert/Recert Approved

This course will introduce the attendee to the scientific method currently followed in the Latent Print community, ACE-V (Analysis, Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification.) The intricacies of the Analysis stage will be broken down and particular attention to the levels of detail, ridge flow, pattern type, ridge counts, minutiae, and minutiae formations, ridgeoscopy and poroscopy will be covered. Types of impressions commonly found at crime scenes will be discussed as will the meanings of the terms “of value” and “no value.”  Discussions will also include the numerical system vs a holistic approach, as well as other topics currently being discussed in the field. Instruction will also be focused on distortion and the how, what, why and when, behind an impression appearing as it does. The course will culminate in hands on activities creating distortion firsthand as well as taking a set of legible fingerprints.

Mastering Mid-Range Photography

IAI CS and Photography Approved

This course will cover photography methods for the crime scene investigator and focus on taking various midrange photos. The course will cover all types of photography, the exposure triangle, and photo composition. Students will learn the issues commonly associated with midrange photos and how to fix them. 

No prior classes are required for this course. Students should bring a camera and any associated equipment.

Instructor: Nathan Carey

Workshop: Detect More Evidence

Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene because they are not visible to the
naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the proper corresponding filter, it is still possible
to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. The
purpose of this workshop will be to introduce attendees to various methods utilized in detecting
evidence beyond the visible range. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths

of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultra-
violet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids, gunshot residue, and

fingerprints on difficult backgrounds. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect
evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be
explored to aid in the detection of evidence at crime scenes. Attendees will be introduced to non-visible
lighting techniques and digital capture of fingerprints developed using various treatment methods
including cyanoacrylate fuming and IR fluorescent fingerprint powders.

Instructor: Derek Hardy

Workshop: Advancement in Technology for Latent Examiners and Crime Scene Investigators

As forensic technology continues to advance, it is essential for professionals in the field to remain current with tools that can enhance evidence detection and examination. This hands-on workshop at the New Jersey Division of the IAI is specifically tailored for crime scene investigators and latent fingerprint examiners who want to deepen their understanding of emerging technologies used in the field and laboratory.

Participants will explore how alternate light sources (ALS), lasers, and reflective ultraviolet imaging systems (RUVIS) can be used to improve the detection and documentation of latent prints and trace evidence. Topics include the science of fluorescence in forensics, differences between Class 4 lasers, ALS, and LED systems, the unique benefits of shortwave UV, and the operational principles of RUVIS. The workshop emphasizes practical application through direct, guided interaction with cutting-edge equipment. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities examining various types of evidence using advanced ALS, laser, and RUVIS tools. By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of how these technologies can enhance both field and lab investigations.