Advanced Crime Scene Documentation and Evidence Management

Training Course Summary

This training course explores the critical processes of crime scene documentation and physical evidence management, moving beyond basic procedural knowledge to explore the strategic rationale, inherent challenges, and legal implications of each step.

Students will analyze how systematic documentation (field notes, sketches, and photography) integrates with foundational principles of evidence handling (Locard's Principle, chain of custody) to ensure the integrity and admissibility of forensic findings.

The course emphasizes decision-making at the crime scene, the interplay of various documentation methods, and the impact of technological advancements on contemporary crime scene investigation.

This course is delivered in a fully self-paced format, allowing students to progress on their own schedule. All lessons are text-based and reinforced with structured assignments and investigative questions that simulate real-world crime scene decision-making. Unlike traditional courses, there are no live or pre-recorded lectures. Instead, the focus is on applied learning, allowing students the opportunity to practice, analyze, and document evidence in ways that mirror the professional expectations of working crime scene investigators.

Includes 5 downloadable resource guides:

Documentation Guide and Notes
CSI Processing Guide
Types of Evidence Guide
Evidence Sheet
Crime Scene Photography Guide

Training Curriculum

Introduction
6 Lessons
- Training Introduction
  Preview
- Training Overview
  Preview
- Module Objectives
  Preview
- Audio Deep Dive
  Start
- Facilitator: Dr. Terri Armenta
  Preview
- Supplemental Training Materials
  Start
Learning Module 1: The Interconnected Pillars: Documentation and Evidence
5 Lessons
- Introduction
  Start
- Documentation as Evidence: Beyond the "What" to the "Why"
  Start
- Locard's Exchange Principle in Practice: Guiding Evidence Search and Collection
  Start
- Learning Activity: Locard Principle Application
  Start
- Discussion: Evaluate Trace Evidence
  Start
Learning Module 2: Mastering Documentation Techniques: Beyond Basic Application
6 Lessons
- Introduction
  Start
- Strategic Crime Scene Search Patterns and Their Rationale
  Start
- Comprehensive Field Notes and Measurement Methods
  Start
- The Art and Science of Crime Scene Sketching
  Start
- Learning Activity: Case Studies and the Consequences of Methodological Failure
  Start
- Discussion: Food for Thought
  Start
Learning Module 3: Advanced Photography and Specialized Imaging
6 Lessons
- Introduction
  Start
- Strategic Crime Scene Photography: Capturing the Narrative
  Start
- Mastering Lighting and Specialized Techniques
  Start
- The Role of Videotaping and 3D Scanning in Comprehensive Documentation
  Start
- Learning Activity: The Cleaned-Up Crime Scene
  Start
- Discussion: Choosing the Right Tool
  Start
Learning Module 4: Evidence Management: From Collection to Custody
6 Lessons
- Introduction
  Start
- Principles of Evidence Collection and Preservation
  Start
- Establishing and Maintaining the Chain of Custody
  Start
- The Interplay of Documentation and Evidence Admissibility
  Start
- Learning Activity: Scenario Analysis
  Start
- Discussion: The Unseen Evidence
  Start
Course Conclusion
3 Lessons
- Thank You
  Start
- Course Survey
  Start
- Certificate of Completion
  Start

Terri Armenta, PhD, MSFS

Course Facilitator

Welcome! I’m Terri Armenta, and I’ll be guiding you through this training in Advanced Crime Scene Documentation & Evidence Management.

With over 25 years of experience teaching criminal justice, forensic science, and criminalistics, I specialize in helping students like you develop the real-world skills needed to succeed in crime scene investigation. As the Director of the Forensic Science Academy and founder of Forensic Training Unlimited, I’ve created hands-on training programs and online modules that bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional CSI work.

Many of my students have gone on to careers as crime scene investigators, forensic technicians, and law enforcement professionals. In this course, I’ll guide you through advanced documentation and evidence management techniques in a way that’s practical, engaging, and career-focused.

My goal is to prepare you with the tools and confidence to stand out in the field of forensic science.

Course Pricing

Core Track

$147 USD

Students on a tight budget who want job-focused training
- Full Access to all text-based modules
- Assignments & investigative questions
- Downloadable supplemental guides (checklists, measurement, sketching)

Enroll Core Track Student

Certificate Track

$247 USD

Students who want credentials for professional proof
- Everything in Core Track Plus these features:
- Capstone Project Submission with grading and feedback
- Printable Certificate of Completion for LinkedIn & Portfolio

Enroll Certified Track