Digital Evidence for the First Responder, January 31, 2008 – The Forensic Science Institute hosted the Certified Electronic Evidence Collection Specialist (CEECS) certification course. The CEECS is a basic one-day course offered only to Law Enforcement officers and Law Enforcement support personnel. The course was designed to instruct personnel on how to collect electronic evidence in a forensically sound manner. The course included lecture, a practical exam, and a written exam. Upon successful completion of the written examination, the course attendee was awarded a CEECS certification issued by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialist (IACIS).
Daubert Challenges to Latent Print Testimony, March 11, 2008 – The Forensic Science Institute hosted a seminar by two leading experts in Latent Print Identification. Heather Webster and Melissa Gische, both examiners with the FBI Laboratory, presented lectures specifically designed for law enforcement and forensic science personnel as well as students and faculty. This seminar was co-hosted by the Norman, Oklahoma Police Department and the Oklahoma Division of the International Association for Identification. Topics covered in this seminar included a brief history of significant court cases challenging the scientific reliability of fingerprint evidence; Daubert guidelines- what they are and how to address them in a Daubert hearing; preparation for cross-examination; and current issues (“hot topics”) in the field.
Interpretations of DNA Mixtures, September 16 & 17, 2008 – This two day workshop provided current DNA examiners with a comprehensive review and interpretation of DNA mixtures. Forensic scientists are faced with challenging mixtures that require difficult interpretation. Criteria for consideration for the identification of mixed specimens should include but are not limited to, establishing threshold values, defining allelic and non-allelic peaks, identifying artifacts, tri-allelic patterns, number of contributors, allele sharing, stutter peaks, minor contributors, comparison with reference specimens, and some issues related to the application of mixture calculation statistics. Assumptions should be documented so that reliable descriptive information is conveyed adequately concerning that mixture and what were the bases for the interpretations that were carried out. Interpretation guidelines also should incorporate strategies to minimize potential bias that could occur by making inferences based on a reference sample. The intent of this workshop was to promote thought and discussion in regards to mixture interpretation, provide mixture interpretation exercises, extrapolate mixtures for entry into CODIS, and to discuss report writing methods in regards to mixtures.
Dr. Henry Lee, October 7, 2008 – Dr. Henry Lee, renowned forensic scientist, spoke on his keen insight into the science of solving crimes, while also sharing his inspiring story of his journey from China to the United States. The presentation was part of UCO’s “Passport to China” 2008. The UCO Passport program celebrates the culture and people of different nations throughout the world each fall semester with a series of campus events. Learn more about Dr. Henry Lee at his website: www.drhenrylee.com
Advanced Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, October 23, 2008 – The Forensic Science Institute hosted one of the leading experts in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis and Recognition. Mr. Tom Bevel retired from the Oklahoma City Police Department as Commander of the Homicide, Robbery, Missing Persons, and the Unsolved Homicide units. He served a total of eighteen (18) years with the Forensic Science Services as a Specialist, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and Assistant Laboratory Director. Mr. Bevel presented an eight hour workshop on Advanced Bloodstain Pattern Analysis. The workshop also consisted of hands-on learning.
Daubert Challenges to Latent Print Testimony, November 19 and 20, 2008 – The Forensic Science Institute hosted a seminar by three leading FBI experts in Latent Print Identification. This workshop was designed for current latent print examiners. Students learned how to address Daubert guidelines during direct testimony, as well as how to prepare for cross-examination. Through small group exercises, students developed an outline for a PowerPoint presentation and discussed defense related arguments. Students also practiced presenting this material by participating in moot court simulations.
Body Fluid Identification by RNA Profiling lecture, December 11, 2008 – A two hour lecture on Body Fluid Identification by RNA Profiling was provided by Dr. Jack Ballantyne, Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Central Florida and the Associate Director for Research at the National Center for Forensic Science in Orlando, Florida.
