Law and Public Service

Forensic Science

Forensic Science uses the application of science to connect violations of law to a specific criminal, criminal act or behavior, and the victim.  Students will learn the procedures and terminology related to the search for and examination of physical evidence. They will engage in opportunities to observe evidence in a laboratory environment and distinguish between the different types of evidence that can typically be found at crime scenes. Using scientific methods, students will analyze trace evidence (hair, fibers, soil, glass), DNA, blood, blood stain patterns, estimate time of death and create a biological profile using skeletal anatomy and biologic decomposition, bullet and tool mark impressions, fingerprints, and toxicological evidence and drug profiles. Additionally, students will learn the historical development of forensic science, those who were involved in its development, and related legal aspects.

Law Enforcement I

This course is an overview of the history, organization and functions of local, state, and federal law enforcement. This course includes the role of
constitutional law, the United States legal system, criminal law, law enforcement terminology, and the classification and elements of crime. Students will
understand ethical behavior standards for law enforcement personnel. Students will study court cases and analyze the impact of court decisions, custody and
interrogation, procedural and substantive criminal law, the rights of victims and witnesses, and reasonable suspicion and probable cause. Students will use field
note-taking and report-writing skills and will employ procedures to protect, document, and process a crime scene
 

Law Enforcement II

Prerequisite: Law Enforcement I

This course provides the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for a career in law enforcement.  This course includes examining ethical and legal responsibilities, operation of police and emergency telecommunication equipment, and courtroom testimony.  Students will evaluate body language, gestures, verbal tone, and inflection and will facilitate field note-taking and report writing.  Students will prepare testimony for court and during a mock trial.  Students will demonstrate the use of anger management techniques to resolve conflicts.  Students will study law enforcement procedures for serving writs, warrants, and summons, procedures pertaining to alcohol and beverage laws, driving while intoxicated and driving under the influence, and strategies for crowd management.  Students will investigate and document a simulated motor vehicle accident.