Course Number and Title:
CRJ 121 Introduction to Law Enforcement and Forensics
Prerequisites
CRJ 101 and CRJ 102
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course introduces the core principles and practical applications of forensic science in criminal investigations. This course explores crime scene procedures, evidence handling, DNA and trace evidence analysis, and the use of impression and serological evidence. Emphasis is placed on how forensic science supports law enforcement efforts and contributes to the criminal justice process through case resolution and courtroom presentation.
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
- Analyze the history and the development of forensic sciences, as it relates to the law enforcement field. (CCC 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 5)
- Demonstrate the proper procedures used by law enforcement for the securing, assessing, and processing of crime scenes. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 5)
- Examine deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence and its capabilities, evidentiary value, and proper handling. (CCC 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 5)
- Examine the various types of analysis methods for physical and trace evidence.(CCC 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 5)
- Analyze tool markings, ballistics, and differing impressions. (CCC 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1)
- Analyze serology and blood spatter at crime scenes. (CCC 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 5)
- Examine the use of anthropology, entomology, and taphonomy to aid in the determination of the time of death. (CCC 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 5)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Analyze the history and the development of forensic sciences, as it is related to law enforcement.
- Identify the historical developments of forensics.
- Examine cases that gave rise to the need for scientific evidence.
- Describe how forensic evidence is used by law enforcement agencies in different types of cases.
- Explain the evidentiary standard used by the courts to accept forensic evidence.
- Demonstrate the proper procedures used by law enforcement for the securing, assessing, and processing of crime scenes.
- Identify the proper way to secure a crime scene.
- Demonstrate techniques for assessing a crime scene for evidence.
- Classify various types of crime scene processing techniques.
- Explain the importance of chain-of-custody in handling evidence.
- Examine deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence and its capabilities, evidentiary value, and proper handling.
- Analyze the history of DNA evidence and its impact on the field of law enforcement.
- Identify the capabilities of DNA evidence.
- Explain the importance of DNA evidence to law enforcement to assist in solving cases.
- Describe the proper procedures in obtaining and securing DNA evidence.
- Examine the various types of analysis methods for physical and trace evidence.
- Identify trace evidence such as hair, blood, saliva, skin, semen, and more.
- Explain how trace evidence contributes to developing details of a case.
- Describe how trace evidence is introduced into a trial by an expert witness.
- Analyze tool markings, ballistics, and differing impressions.
- Identify various markings, ballistics, and types of impressions.
- Explain the importance of obtaining and preserving markings from a crime scene.
- Analyze the effects that markings, ballistics, and impressions have on a case.
- Analyze serology and blood spatter at crime scenes.
- Define serology and its importance in forensic investigations.
- Identify the various sources of the body where it is generated.
- Explain the importance of blood splatter at crime scenes and how it can assist in deciphering what occurred.
- Examine the use of anthropology, entomology, and taphonomy to aid in the determination of the time of death.
- Summarize how anthropology aids in solving crimes and involving human remains.
- Explain the importance of entomology in determining the time of death.
- Define taphonomy and the process of fossilization.
- Describe how the various sciences aid in solving crimes.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Grade |
Summative Assessments |
Exams (2-3) (equally weighted) | 30% |
Forensic Case Study Analysis | 10% |
Forensic Evidence Presentation for Law Enforcement Briefing | 10% |
Cold Case Re-Investigation Proposal | 10% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments, including but not limited to: Quizzes Assignments Career research Journals Discussion boards
| 40% |
Total | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
- Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
- Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
- Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
- Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.