CO-HOSTED BY:



CO-HOSTED BY:
August 11, 2024
Attendees, Members, Exhibitors and Friends,
August 11, 2024
Welcome to the 2024 International Homicide Investigators Association’s 30th Annual Training Symposium. We are very excited to be back in Washington, D.C., this year! Our co-host has been tremendously helpful, and we couldn’t have done it without them. This year’s co-host is the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Please thank them for their continued support of our organization.
Welcome to the 2024 International Homicide Investigators Association’s 30th Annual Training Symposium. We are very excited to be back in Washington, D.C., this year! Our co-host has been tremendously helpful, and we couldn’t have done it without them. This year’s co-host is the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Please thank them for their continued support of our organization
I look forward to seeing old friends, colleagues, meeting new members and attendees. I highly encourage anyone wanting to become a board member to contact me or your regional representative.
I look forward to seeing old friends, colleagues, meeting new members and attendees. I highly encourage anyone wanting to become a board member to contact me or your regional representative.
There is no higher honor than investigating the death of another human being. Your role in these investigations is crucial, and we are here to support you. The 2024 IHIA symposium is structured to enhance your skills and knowledge with presentations from investigators, prosecutors, forensic science professionals, academia, digital media, and electronic communications.
There is no higher honor than investigating the death of another human being. Your role in these investigations is crucial, and we are here to support you. The 2024 IHIA symposium is structured enhance your skills and knowledge with presentations from investigators, prosecutors, forensic science professionals, academia, digital media, and electronic communications.
In support of these investigations, you will find exhibitors who are as dedicated to these investigations as you are. Our exhibitors are part of the IHIA family, and many have been with us for years. They could choose to support other associations or endeavors, but year after year, they spend several days with us and interact with each of you. We take this loyalty very seriously and genuinely appreciate their friendship and the time and energy put into their products to support you in your investigations. Please take some time to speak with them, as you will find their passion will rival yours!
In support of these investigations, you will find exhibitors who are as dedicated to these investigations as you are. Our exhibitors are part of the IHIA family, and many have been with us for years. They could choose to support other associations or endeavors, but year after year, they spend several days with us and interact with each of you. We take this loyalty very seriously and genuinely appreciate their friendship and the time and energy put into their products to support you in your investigations. Please take some time to speak with them, as you will find their passion will rival yours!
Thank you all for attending and for your unwavering commitment to professional development and growth. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and your agencies and communities appreciate the sacrifices you and your families make.
Sincerely,
Thank you all for attending and for your unwavering commitment to professional development and growth. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and your agencies and communities appreciate the sacrifices you and your families make.
Sincerely,
Sgt. Rob Peters President IHIA
Sgt. Rob Peters President IHIA
The mission of the International Homicide Investigators Association is to provide its members with support in homicide and death investigations through the provision of leadership, training, networking, resources and expertise necessary to solve cases.
The International Homicide Investigators Association was founded during a 1988 ViCAP (Violent Criminal Apprehension Program) international homicide symposium, sponsored by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at Quantico, Virginia. This symposium brought together an elite group of professionals, from around the world, representing all death investigation disciplines. The IHIA is the world’s largest and fastest growing organization of homicide and death investigation professionals. The non-profit organization represents the largest network of homicide professionals and practitioners ever assembled. The IHIAhas representatives in every U.S. state and nations on six continents. The membership includes highly respected death and homicide investigators, criminal behaviorists, forensic scientists, crime scene technicians, crime and intelligence analysts, prosecutors, and others, many of whom are considered among the foremost experts in their respective fields and disciplines.
The diversity of IHIA’s membership greatly enhances the organization’s capability to successfully address the myriad of demanding issues facing homicide and death investigators in today’s world. The IHIA’s primary mission is to support law enforcement death investigation professionals through the provision of leadership, training, networking, resources and expertise necessary to solve cases. Successful death investigations frequently require inter-agency and inter-disciplinary cooperation and partnerships. The IHIA’s multi-disciplinary membership promotes inter-disciplinary and inter-agency coordination, cooperation, and working partnerships. This basic tenet forms a foundation for conducting sound, successful and professional homicide and death investigations. The core values of IHIA are professionalism, responsibility, cooperation, teamwork, integrity, hard work, and diligence – all of which are necessary to accomplish successful investigations.
By bringing all disciplines together under one umbrella organization, the IHIA nurtures inter-agency cooperation, professional interactions, and increased communication relative to:
• Homicide/Death Case Management
• Latest Advancements in Forensic Technology
• Laboratory Sciences Trends in Criminal Behavior
• Methodology Case Comparisons to Determine Similarity in Criminal Activity
• Effective Handling of Major Cases/Critical Incidents Involving Child Abduction
• Single Homicides
• Serial Murder
• Mass Murder
• Missing and Unidentified Dead
• Mass Casualties
• Terrorism
• Weapons of Mass Destruction
• Other Significant Investigations Investigative
• Prosecutorial Strategy Obtaining Successful Case Closures and Trial Convictions
• Child & Infant Death Investigations
To accomplish these goals, the IHIA conducts annual symposiums and regional training sessions. Attendees are provided with the latest advanced training in all disciplines by renowned experts. These sessions offer opportunities for IHIA members to present cases, exchange information, and share personal experiences. Through such networking members help one another solve homicides and other complex investigations.
Each year, the IHIA recognizes law enforcement professionals who have displayed exceptional innovation and perseverance in conducting homicide investigations, evidence collection, evidence examination, advances in forensic science and technology, and successful homicide case prosecutions. Career achievements are also considered for recognition. Nominees for awards can be submitted to the IHIA’s Executive Board. Those selected for the IHIA Award for Excellence are honored at the annual training symposiums. Award nominees need not be IHIA members.
Symposiums (SB Symposiums) have been held regularly since the 1988 Quantico conference, in such locations such as Kansas City, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Reno, Houston, Las Vegas, Tampa, New Orleans, Washington DC, San Francisco, Austin, The Netherlands, and in the United Kingdom. Members of the IHIA have been instrumental in starting state homicide investigator associations in Texas, Florida, Virginia, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Louisiana.
Foundational Homicide Investigations Course - 40 hours
Advanced Homicide Investigations Course - 40 hours
Cold Case/No-Body Homicide Investigations & Prosecution Course 32 hours
Mass Casualty Response and Active Shooter Course - 40 hours
Child & Infant Death Investigations Course - 40 hours
Please visit our website, http://www.ihia.org for dates and locations.
Sunday, August 11, 2024
4:00pm – 7:00pm Registration and IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
4:00pm – 7:00pm Exhibit Hall Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
4:00pm – 7:00pm Welcome Reception, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
Monday, August 12, 2024
Location: Regency Foyer/Columbia ABC
Sunday, August 11 4:00pm – 7:00pm Monday, August 12 8:00am – 5:00pm Tuesday, August 13 8:00am – 3:30pm
Join us on Sunday from 4:00pm – 7:00pm for the Opening Welcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall, sponsored by our Exhibitors and Exhibiting Partners.
7:00am – 9:00am Morning Coffee Service, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
7:00am – 5:00pm Registration & IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 5:00pm Exhibit Hall Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 9:00am Opening Ceremonies, Regency ABC
8:30am - 9:15am The Wounded Blue, Lt. Randy Sutton (retired)
9:35am – 12:15pm General Session: Leadership for a Lifetime: How the Past Prepares Us for the Future, Chief Paul Butler (retired) - Paul Butler Presentations
10:00am – 10:30am Morning Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
12:15pm – 1:15pm Lunch Break (attendees on own for lunch)
1:15pm – 5:15pm General Session: Ambush Murder of Seattle PD Officer Timothy Brenton, Detective Britt Kelly, Detective Cloyd Steiger, John Castleton - Seattle P.D. and King County Sheriff’s Department
2:30pm – 3:00pm Afternoon Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
5:30pm – 7:30pm Monday Evening Happy Hour Reception
Location: The Dubliner DC Irish Pub 4 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 (sponsored by QIAGEN)
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
7:00am – 9:00am Morning Coffee Service, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
7:00am – 5:00pm Registration & IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 3:30pm Exhibit Hall Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 10:00am General Session: Collaborative Child Homicide Investigation, Detective Mike Cavilla/Evan Matshes MD FRCPC - Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service and NAAG Forensic PC
10:00am –10:30pm Morning Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
10:30am – 3:00pm General Session: Operation Hummingbird - UK Nurse Serial Killer Investigation, Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes, Detective Superintendent Simond David Blackwell, Detective Sergeant Danielle Stonier - Cheshire Police - UK
12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch Break (attendees on own for lunch)
2:30pm – 3:00pm Afternoon Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
3:00pm – 5:00pm General Session: The Katherine Wilson Missing Person Investigation, Superintendent Ken Leppert (Retired) - Ontario Provincial Police - Leppert Consulting
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
7:00am – 9:00am Morning Coffee Service, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
7:00am – 5:00pm Registration & IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 10:00am
General Session: “I put my faith in Jennifer Faith”, Detective Eric T. Barnes (ATF TFO) - Dallas Police Department
10:15am – 12:00pm General Session: Fentanyl Death Investigations for Law Enforcement, Master Investigator Jim Peters - Riverside County Sheriff’s Office
10:00am – 10:30am Morning Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch Break (attendees on own for lunch)
1:00pm – 3:00pm General Session: Multidiscipline Approach to Fatal Fire Investigations and the Fire Investigator Role, Asst. Fire Marshal Jeremy Davis and Fire Investigator Samantha Peek - Santa Clara County Fire Department - Regency ABC
3:15pm – 5:00pm
General Session: Precision Cellular Analysis: Cell Phone Analysis, Lance Kepple, Co-founder, Precision Cellular
Thursday, August 15, 2024
7:00am – 9:00am Morning Coffee Service, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
7:00am – 5:00pm Registration & IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 10:15am
General Session: No Body, No Problem: a kidnap, revenge murder plot that almost worked, DDA Matthew Chisholm and Investigator Ashley EnglefieldSacramento District Attorney’s Office
10:30am – 12:00pm General Session: The Psychology of Criminal Dismemberment, Dr. Peter Collins, CD, MD, MCA, FRCP, CTAP - Ontario Provincial Police
10:00am – 10:30am Morning Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch Break (attendees on own for lunch)
1:00pm – 3:45pm General Session: Jason De Leso murder presentation – South Australia, Detective Superintendent Des Bray, APM - South Australia Police, O/C Serious Crime Coordination Branch
4:00pm – 5:00pm General Session: DNA Investigative Technology Updates, Ms. Danielle Gluth - DNA Labs International
6:00pm – 9:00pm IHIA Symposium Social Event
Location: The Union Pub 201 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20002 (sponsored by DNA Labs International)
Friday, August 16, 2024
7:00am – 9:00am Morning Coffee Service, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
7:00am – 5:00pm Registration & IHIA Store Open, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
8:00am – 9:00am
General Session: An overview of the NamUs Program and resources for Law Enforcement Agencies, Program Specialist Amy Jenkinson, M.S. - Forensic Services Program Manager Heather McKiernan - NamUs
9:15am – 12:30pm General Session: Oxford School Shooting, Investigator Michael Thomas, Prosecutor Karen McDonald, Asst. Prosecutor Mark Keast - Oakland County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney
10:00am – 10:30am Morning Beverage Break, Regency Foyer / Columbia ABC
PRESIDENT
Sergeant Rob Peters
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office
Sacramento, CA
PAST PRESIDENT
Lieutenant Paul Belli (Ret)
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office
Sacramento, California
SECRETARY
Crime Analyst Nathan Graham
Federal Bureau Of Investigations
FBI Academy Quantico, VA
VICE-PRESIDENT
Colonel Frank Losat
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Tampa, FL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Lieutenant Steve Lewis (Ret)
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Tampa, FL
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIONS LIAISON
Assistant Section Chief Jeffrey McClain
Federal Bureau Of Investigations
Investigative and Operations Support
Section/Critical Incident Response Group Quantico, VA
TREASURER
Lieutenant Mark Blair
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Tampa, FL
FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATIONS LIAISON
Unit Chief Jody Kramer
Federal Bureau Of Investigations
Chief of the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU-4) Quantico, VA
DIRECTOR AT-LARGE
Sergeant Neal Clanton
Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department
Sacramento, California
WESTERN REGION
Lieutenant Edward Striedinger (ret.)
Seattle Police Department
Seattle, Washington
SOUTHERN REGION
Corporal Mike Blair
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Tampa, FL
EASTERN REGION
Det. Sergeant Richard Perreault New Hampshire State Police Concord, NH
NORTHERN REGION
Captain Everett Babcock Kansas City Police Department
INTERNATIONAL REGION
David Gaylor (Ret) Sussex Police United Kingdom
LEGAL COUNSEL
Paul Marino, Esq.
CHAIRMAN OF THE CORPORATE COUNCIL
Jessica Koong
MONDAY, AUGUST 12
9:00am – 12:00pm
Leadership for a Lifetime: How the Past Prepares Us for the Future
This motivational presentation will cover what it takes to be a good professional and highlight the power of being a good person. I will illustrate how to take individual talents and apply them to the group setting to make an unstoppable and productive team. It is my belief that the ability to lead is present in everyone, regardless of their rank in an organization or irrespective of their situation in life. There are common characteristics that respected people and effective leaders share - most of these traits are developed by the individual rather than through the position they hold. This presentation will cover some of these most important leadership traits, as well as how each individual can use the lessons of yesterday to overcome the challenges of today and capitalize on the opportunities of tomorrow.
Paul Butler, Paul Butler Presentations
Paul Butler is an internationally renowned speaker, presenter, instructor, and entertainer. During his 27 years of law enforcement, he has been a public servant, training officer, sergeant, crisis negotiator, chief of police, and chief deputy. He believes the power of a positive attitude can take you to the top or help you simply find happiness and pride in the current role you fill.
1:00pm – 5:00pm
Ambush Murder of Seattle PD Officer Timothy Brenton
On Halloween night, 2009, Seattle Police Officers Timothy Brenton and Britt Sweeney were ambushed by a hail of gunfire as they sat in their patrol car on a residential Seattle street. Ofc. Kelly survived the attack, but Ofc. Brenton lost his life that night. The investigation that followed revealed that the assailant, Christopher Monfort, was also responsible for the bombing of a Seattle motor yard just nine days prior. After an exhaustive investigation, Monfort was arrested six days after the murder, but not before he attempted to shoot several more Seattle officers, and only after he was shot twice by those same officers. More than five years after shooting Officers Brenton and Sweeney, Monfort was convicted of Aggravated Murder in the First Degree and several other crimes and sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison.
Brit Kelly, Officer, Seattle Police Department
Britt became a sworn law enforcement officer in 2009. Days into her field training she was involved in a traumatic incident where she and her training officer were ambushed. Sadly, her training officer did not survive. Britt persevered and continued her training, successfully becoming a Seattle Police Officer. 15 years later Britt is still on the job and has enjoyed a career to include night patrol, bicycle patrol, detective and now a training officer
Cloyd Steiger, Detective, Castleton - Seattle P.D.
Cloyd Steiger supervised and oversaw all investigators and analysts in the HITS program state-wide. The HITS unit tracks and supports homicide investigations throughout the state of Washington and Oregon attempting to tie cases across jurisdictional lines that may not previously connected. They assist in murder investigations by providing resources, expert coaching, and advice, as well as cold-case review or anything needed by an agency in the state investigating a murder
John Castleton, Seattle P.D. and King County Sheriff’s Department
John is a Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney with the King County Prosecutor’s Office (KCPAO) in Seattle, Washington. I have been with KCPAO for 25 years, the last 17 of which as a homicide prosecutor in the Most Dangerous Offender Project Unit (MDOP). I became the co-chair of MDOP three years ago, where my co-chair and I supervise 12 senior deputy prosecuting attorneys who handle all homicide prosecutions in King County.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 13
8:00am – 10:30am
Collaborative Child Homicide Investigation
In November 2011, six-year-old Calgarian Meika Dawn JORDAN sustained horrific physical and mental abuse in her Calgary, Alberta family home before she was eventually murdered by her step-mother and biological father. An intense eleven-month homicide investigation followed Meika’s death, including wiretap and a complex police undercover operation. In October 2012, the investigation culminated in the arrests and charges of First-Degree Murder against both caregivers. This presentation details the police investigation, including the many roadblocks and challenges that investigators faced along the way towards a successful conclusion. The presentation also reinforces the importance of how crucial it is that the police investigators work closely with the medical professionals and child advocacy centers to secure evidence when investigating abuse against children.
Mike Cavilla, Senior Corporal, Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service / NAAG Forensic PC
Former Detective Michael CAVILLA retired from the Calgary Police Service in April 2020 after 25 years of service. In the last 11 years of his career with Calgary Police, Detective CAVILLA was assigned to the Homicide Unit of the Major Crimes Section where he investigated over 300 homicides and suspicious deaths, including the suspicious deaths of over a dozen children. In May 2021, Michael was hired by the Tsuut’ina Nation Police Service as a Senior Corporal and Investigative Coordinator where he currently mentors and assists the junior police members with their criminal investigations. Michael, an avid soccer player and rodeo fan, is married with two young daughters and currently resides with his family in Calgary, Alberta, CANADA.
Evan Matshes MD FRCPC
Dr. Evan Matshes is the Chief Forensic Pathology for NAAG FORENSIC, a law enforcement and defense department contractor that provides forensic pathology services based in California. He is board certified in anatomic and forensic pathology, and has a practice that focusses on infants and toddlers.
10:30am – 3:00pm
Operation Hummingbird - UK Nurse Serial Killer Investigation
The learning from the investigation into unexpected and unexplained deaths in a Neonatal Unit from 2015-2016. Will cover the investigation strategy, set up, and delivery. Consultation with Lawyers and Prosecutors, and case progression. Identification, commissioning and management of expert witnesses. Declaration of suspect, arrest and interview techniques, and charge/ indictment of suspect. Management of case through trial and verdicts. Also the strategic management of the investigation, media and stakeholders.
Paul Hughes, Detective Superintendent, Cheshire Police, Major Crime Unit
I have been the Senior Investigating Officer for Operation Hummingbird from the start in 2017. Alongside a career in Major Crime, I have been a Hostage Negotiator for 20 years.
Simon David Blackwell, Detective Superintendent, PIP 4 Operation Hummingbird Cheshire Police I have worked for Cheshire Police for 28 years, the vast majority of which as a detective. As an SIO I have led many homicides and highly complex Investigations since 2012.
Danielle Stonier, Detective Sergeant, Cheshire Police
I am an experienced investigator of major crime and homicide, I worked on Operation Hummingbird initially as the lead interviewer of Lucy Letby and now as a Detective Sergeant.
3:15pm – 5:15pm
The Katherine Wilson Missing Person Investigation
Katherine was a 12-year-old girl that vanished from the small community of Kirkland Lake in northern Canada in October of 1970. Hear how the disappearance was solved by way of a murder charge almost four decades later.
Ken Leppert, Retired Detective Superintendent, Ontario Provincial Police
Ken’s professional history includes being a member of the Canadian Armed Forces (Special Service Force) and homicide detective with the Ontario Provincial Police. He retired as a Detective Superintendent - Director of the Criminal Investigation Branch in 2020. Since that time he has been contracted to case managed numerous death investigations in consultation with the Province of Ontario and several Indigenous communities. He enjoys maintaining his fitness, being outdoors, and time with his family, friends, and their family dogs.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14
8:00am – 10:00am
“I put my faith in Jennifer Faith”
During this course I will discuss the murder investigation of James Faith Jr. I will go into detail to describe the investigative and operational efforts made by state/federal investigators to bring those responsible into custody. I will also outline the strategies by state & federal prosecutors to hold the responsible parties accountable for James Faith’s death.
Eric Barnes, Detective, Dallas Police Department
Detective Eric Barnes has been with the Dallas Police Department for 18 years and has been a detective with the department’s Homicide Unit for 12 years. He is also assigned to the Texoma HIDTA as a task force officer with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.
Fentanyl Death Investigations for Law Enforcement
The number of fatal Fentanyl overdoses doubled every year in Riverside County between 2017 and 2021. Sheriff Chad Bianco formed the Overdose Death Investigations / Narcotics team (O.D.I.N.) in March 2021 with the goal of prosecuting Fentanyl dealers with murder charges. To date, we have filed over 50 State murder cases and 10 Federal death cases against Fentanyl dealers. Our presentation will outline our investigative strategies and will include 2 case studies with successful prosecution at both the State and
Jim Peters, Sergeant, Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
Jim Peters has been with Riverside Sheriff’s Department for 25 years, having spent 9 years as a Master Investigator with the Central Homicide Unit, and 3 years with Special Investigations Bureau as a founding member of the Overdose Death Investigations / Narcotics team (O.D.I.N.). He has his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from La Sierra University, and MA degree in Criminal Justice from Arizona State University, and was recently promoted to Sergeant and assigned to patrol at Moreno Valley Sheriff’s Station.
Danny Hollingsworth, Investigator, Overdose Death Investigations / Narcotics Team (ODIN), Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
Danny Hollingsworth has been with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office for eighteen years. During this time, he served on several assignments to include custody, courts, patrol and special teams. In 2020 he was promoted to Investigator. During the spring of 2021, Riverside County Sheriff assigned Hollingsworth to a newly created unit to investigate suspected fentanyl overdose deaths and juveniles exposed to fentanyl. This team would later become the Overdose Death Investigations / Narcotics Team (ODIN).
Multidiscipline Approach to Fatal Fire Investigations and the Fire Investigator Role
“Multidiscipline Approach to Fatal Fire Investigations and the Fire Investigator Role” explores the intricate collaboration between fire investigators, law enforcement, and various disciplines to effectively analyze fatal fires. This session delves into the critical role of fire investigators in uncovering the origin, cause, and circumstances surrounding these tragic incidents. Attendees will gain insights into the importance of integrating expertise from all involved disciplines, which enhances the investigative process, leading to more comprehensive findings and improved case successes. The session emphasizes the significance of a holistic approach in understanding the complexities of fatal fires and highlights the evolving responsibilities of investigators in such investigations.
Jeremy Davis, Assistant Fire Marshal, Santa Clara County Fire Department
Jeremy Davis is currently a Hazmat Assistant Fire Marshal and served previous roles as a Fire/Arson and Bomb Investigator for the Santa Clara County Fire Department and serves as a Vice President and Director of Training at Fire Investigation Industries. He also has experience as a Reserve Police Officer with the Campbell Police Department. Jeremy holds multiple leadership positions within fire investigation organizations including the Executive Director for San Luis Obispo Fire Investigation Strike Team (SLOFIST INC.). He is a Certified Fire Investigator with the California State Fire Marshals Office, California Conference of Investigators, and the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI).
Samantha Peek ,Vice President and Fire Investigator ,Fire Investigation Industries
Samantha Peek is the CEO and Director of Research at Fire Investigation Industries, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science and Chemistry and a MBA in Business. She gained experience as a former Research Intern at the ATF and Laboratory Assistant at the Santa Clara County Crime Lab. With extensive training in fire investigation including CSFM Fire Investigation courses and over 300 fire investigations, Samantha is a certified Forensic Chemist and Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) accredited by the IAAI. She also served as Treasurer for the California Conference of Arson Investigators and currently instructs at the San Luis Obispo Fire Investigation Strike Team (SLOFIST INC.).
The Cell Phone Analysis Session is a brief overview of how cell phones function, what records are available, how to obtain them, and their uses. Real world case studies and examples are used to demonstrate how to integrate cell phone analysis with traditional investigative techniques in homicide investigations.
Lance Kepple, Co-Founder, Precision Cellular Analysis
Lance Kepple served 22 years as an FBI Special Agent and retired as a member of FBI Cellular Analysis Survey Team, CAST Lance successfully recovered numerous missing and kidnapped persons, responded to emergencies, was key in solving dozens of homicides, testified in state and federal courts, and analyzed thousands of records. Lance is a Co-Founder of Precision Cellular Analysis and continues as an expert witness and Law Enforcement Instructor.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 15
8:00am – 10:15am
No Body, No Problem: A Kidnap, Revenge Murder Plot That Almost Worked
In 2018, a local cabinet maker suddenly disappeared from his shop without explanation and was never to be seen again. Good fortune and great police work led investigators to the kidnapper. For the next two years, law enforcement worked to solidify evidence against the plot’s mastermind and convicted both men in Sacramento’s first no-body homicide trial in 20 years.
Matt Chisholm, Principal Criminal Attorney, Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office
Matt Chisholm is a Deputy District Attorney from Sacramento, California. Over his 20-year career, he has tried 69 jury trials to verdict in a wide variety of specialty units, including adult sexual assault, elder and dependent abuse, and major narcotics. For the last six years, Matt has worked in the Homicide Unit and was selected by his colleagues as the Outstanding Prosecutor of the Year in 2022.
Ashley Englefield, Lieutenant, HIDTA Team Commander - TRIDENT, Placer County District Attorney’s Office USMC | Sacramento PD | Placer CO DA, BA Information Systems - CSU Sacramento, MS Criminology - Univ. Of Cambridge shaft testing, and Next Generation Sequencing in three profiling systems. He also innovated and implemented DLI’s successful SpentShell™ technology for fired cartridge casings.
10:30am – 12:00pm
The Psychology of Criminal Dismemberment
The dismemberment of a corpse is comparatively uncommon. In this presentation, Dr. Collins will explore the different motivations of criminal dismemberment using case studies. The associated sexual deviances, with some of these typologies, will also be discussed.
Peter Collins, Operational Forensic Psychiatrist, Ontario Provincial Police
Peter Collins has been the forensic psychiatrist with the Ontario Provincial Police, since 1995. From 1990 to 1995 he was a member of the first profiling unit of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (Violent Crime Analysis Section) and was involved in the development of the Violent Crime Linkage Analysis System (ViCLAS). Since 1992 he has been a member of the crisis/hostage negotiation team of the Toronto Police Service Emergency Task Force.
1:00pm – 3:45pm
Jason De Leso murder presentation – South Australia
Jason De Ieso was an honest and respected family man who through no fault of his own was fatally shot in 2012 in his vehicle repair business at Pooraka in South Australia. As a part of increasing violence between the Finks and Hells Angels Motorcycle Gangs, nine members or associates of the Hells Angels had attended Jason’s business seeking a rival gang member from the Finks, but when they realized he was not there they opened fire on the Jason and his workers, fatally killing Jason as he attempted to flee. Sadly this case remained unsolved for many years, but a task force established in January 2018 to conduct a cold case review and fresh investigation resulted in the arrest and convictions of the offenders. This became one of the most challenging and complex investigations and trials undertaken by the South Australia Police in the last decade.
Desmond Bray, Detective Superintendent, Officer in Charge, Major Crime Investigation Branch, South Australia Police
Det Supt Doc Bray has been a Police Officer for 50 years, with 43 years as a Detective in South Australia where he has worked at all ranks and has specialized in drug and organized crime, outlaw motorcycle gang and homicide investigations and has been the Officer in Charge of Major Crime Investigation Branch since 2013 where he continues to serve. In that role he was responsible for establishing and leading Operation Persist which is the South Australian Police’s highly successful cold case squad, and which was responsible for solving the “cold case” murder of Jason De Ieso by the Hells Angels and many other cold cases. Doc has been awarded the Australian Police Medal, Leadership Medal, Commissioner’s Medal for Excellence, The Premier’s Award For Excellence for service to the State and numerous other awards.
4:00pm – 5:00pm
How to Make the Most out of Your DNA Evidence
This presentation will discuss the importance of utilizing new technologies and the impact these technologies can have on evidence and cases. The following topics will be covered: fired casing collection and processing for DNA, STRmix probabilistic genotyping software, M-Vac DNA collection system, Next Generation Sequencing, and genealogy. The development of strategic testing plans will be outlined, including the considerations that must be made for evidence- probative value, technologies available, and the likelihood of a result.
FRIDAY,
Danielle Gluth, Director of Client Experience, DNA Labs International
Dani Gluth is the Sr. Director of Client Experience at DNA Labs International (DLI) and a UCF graduate where she received her BS degree majoring in Psychology. Dani has been partnering with law enforcement agencies over the past 8 years helping them solve crime with DNA. She specializes in the education of law enforcement; training them about the latest advancements in forensic technology, empowering them with the knowledge and the application to apply to their cases.
Ashley Korsakas, Senior DNA Analyst and Training Manager, DNA Labs International
Ashley Korsakas has a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Biochemistry and an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice, both from Northern Michigan University. She also has a Master of Applied Science from the University of Nebraska. She is currently a Senior DNA Analyst as well as the Training Manager at DNA Labs International (Deerfield Beach, FL). She trains analysts, reviews data, interprets results, writes reports, performs technical reviews, and testifies as requested. Prior to her current role, Ashley worked as a Forensic DNA Analyst at Signature Science and a Forensic Scientist at the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Laboratory (both in Austin, TX). She has over 8 years of experience in forensic biology casework.
8:00am – 9:00am
An overview of the NamUs Program and resources for Law Enforcement Agencies
This presentation will include a brief overview of what the NamUs (National Missing and Unidentified Persons System) program is and services offered. Additionally, a review of the newly established NamUs Multi-Disciplinary Team and the NamUs/ViCAP (Violent Crime Apprehension Program) liaison position will be given and how these new roles are examining and resolving cold cases. Furthermore, Billys Law, and the requirements for submitting a case for forensic genealogy testing along with how many of those cases were not reported as missing will be provided.
Amy Jenkinson, MS, NamUs/ViCAP Liaison, NamUS
Amy Jenkinson holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the North Georgia College and State University in Dahlonega, Georgia and a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology with a focus on Victimology from Walden University. She is also a certified Psychological Autopsy Death Investigator. Ms. Jenkinson joined the NamUs team in February 2015 as a Regional Program Specialist (RPS), and currently serves as the NamUs/ ViCAP Liaison. In this capacity, she works closely with the FBI’s Violent Crime Apprehension Program along with law enforcement, medical examiners, and coroners on NamUs and ViCAP cases.
Heather McKiernan, Forensic Services Program Manager, NamUs
Dr. McKiernan is currently the Senior Manager of Forensics at RTI International, where she serves as the Forensic Services Program Manager for the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs). In this capacity, she facilitates forensic and analytical services including anthropology, odontology, fingerprint analysis, traditional DNA testing, and forensic genetic genealogy for missing, unidentified, and unclaimed persons cases across the United States. She is an accomplished professional with experience spanning academia, research, casework, and executive leadership as a Laboratory Director overseeing operations.
9:15am – 12:30pm
Oxford High School Mass Shooting – Prosecution of the School Shooter and His Parents
An overview of the pre and post-charge investigation from the time the police arrived on scene through the successful prosecutions of the school shooter and his parents. The presentation will include the Officer-in-Charge of the investigation Lt. Timothy Willis, Prosecutor Karen McDonald, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Marc Keast, and Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office Investigator Michael Thomas. Each will offer their respective insight into how the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office worked hand and hand to gather evidence that demonstrated that this tragedy was preventable.
Michael Thomas, Prosecutor Investigator, Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Oakland County, Michigan
Mike Thomas is an Investigator at the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. Mr. Thomas has been in law enforcement for over 33 years, beginning his career as a patrol officer then receiving a promotion as an SVU Detective where he stayed for 17 years. Following that, Mr. Thomas spent two years as a Fraud Investigator before retiring from the Auburn Hills Police Department in 2019. Mr. Thomas then accepted a position in private corporation as the Director of Risk Management at Havenwyck Hospital, where he stayed for 2 years before returning to Law Enforcement in 2021, where he still works as a Deputy.
Karen McDonald, Oakland County Prosecutor, Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Oakland County, Michigan
Karen McDonald is the elected Prosecutor in Oakland County, Michigan, a jurisdiction of over 1.2 million people. On November 30, 2021, eleven months after Karen took office, a student at Oxford High School committed the first mass school shooting in Michigan history. Karen drew national attention when she made the unprecedented decision to charge the shooter’s parents with involuntary manslaughter, and again in early 2024 when she obtained as-charged convictions against both parents. Karen’s professional career began as a high school English teacher. After Law School, Karen joined the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor where she prosecuted child sexual assault cases.
Marc Keast, Chief of Litigation, Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, Oakland County, Michigan
Marc Keast is the Chief of the Circuit Court Division at the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. Prior to becoming Chief, Mr. Keast helped establish and lead the Trafficking Unit – Oakland County’s first unit dedicated to the prosecution of crimes related to the trafficking of human beings - including sex and labor trafficking - and illicit substances, including narcotics. Mr. Keast also served as an Assistant Prosecutor in the Circuit Court Division and Drug Unit. He has worked at the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office for 16 years. During his time at OCPO Mr. Keast has been assigned to handle a number of complex matters, including serving as the lead attorney, alongside Prosecutor McDonald, in the prosecution of the Oxford shooter and his parents.
Timothy Willis, Lieutenant, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office
D/Lt. Tim Willis is a twenty-eight-year veteran of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, currently serving as the Detective Lieutenant for the Investigative and Forensic services Division (IFS). In his current role, he oversees the Sheriff’s Special Investigations Unit, the Fugitive Apprehension Team, the Warrants Division, and the Computer Crimes Division. D/Lt. Willis has served in various capacities at the Sheriff’s Office, including corrections, patrol, and investigations.
D/Lt. Willis is the lead investigator on the Oxford High School shooting case and has conducted several high-profile investigations to include officer involved shootings / Line of Duty deaths.
D/Lt. Willis holds a master’s degree in Management Strategy and Leadership (MSL) from Michigan State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Rochester University. He is also a graduate of the Michigan State University School of Police Staff and Command.
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International Association of Crime Analysts/IACA
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Berla
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Precision Survey Supply
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The Wounded Blue FBI ViCap
ThermoFisher Scientific
QIAGEN
Waldorf University
DNA Labs International
M-Vac Systems
Cybergenetics
Amped Software
NamUs
FBI CJIS
American Bio Recovery Association
Booth 20: Booth 21: Booth 22:
Booth 23: Booth 24: Booth 25: Booth 26: Booth 27:
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CaseCracker
Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates
Valor Technical Cleaning
UNT Health Science Center for Human Identification
Astrea Forensics
CaseGuard
Bode Technology
Sound Thinking
Peace River K9 Search and Rescue Association, Inc.
Homicide Research Working Group
Parabon NanoLabs
American Bio Recovery Association
Booth #17
300 New Jersey Avenue NW, Suite 900, PMB 9031, Washington, DC, 20001
www.americanbiorecovery.org
The American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA) has been setting the standard for education, ethics and technical expertise in the Bio Recovery industry since 1996. We represent Recovery contractors, consultants, vendors, government and training institutions. Our membership is International and is headquartered in the United States. We offer support to State & Federal Governmental Agencies, Insurance Carriers, Homeowners, Institutions and First Responders. The American Bio Recovery Association, established in 1996, has been the vanguard of the biological hazard remediation segment of the remediation industry. ABRA is an international association, upholding the highest technical, ethical and educational guidelines of the biohazard remediation industry.
Amped Software
Booth #14
18 Bridge Street, Unit 2A, Brooklyn, NY 11201
www.ampedsoftware.com
Amped Software sets the standard for image and video forensics. Our software solutions are used by the top law enforcement, military, and government agencies worldwide. The company focuses on developing global leading solutions for all image and video processing needs relating to forensics, investigations, public safety, and intelligence. With an emphasis on the transparency of the methodologies used, Amped solutions empower customers with the three main principles of the scientific method: accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility.
Booth #24
100 Enterprise Way, Suite A102, Scotts Valley, CA 95066
www.astreaforensics.com
Founded by experts in genomics and ancient DNA methods, Astrea uses proprietary methods for improving the recovery of DNA data from the most degraded of samples, including rootless hair. Astrea Forensics applies ancient DNA methods and whole genome sequencing to rootless hair and other degraded sample types to generate SNP profiles that investigators can use to find leads via genetic genealogy and solve cold cases.
Booth #18
445 Defense Highway, Suite M, Annapolis, MD 21401
www.berla.co
Berla Corporation creates solutions for investigators to identify, acquire, and analyze critical information stored within vehicle systems. The average vehicle generates over a terabyte of data each day. Their systems are constantly collecting and generating information about when a vehicle is used, how it is performing, and the environment around it. As the technology in modern day vehicles continues to grow, so will evidentiary opportunities. Berla’s collection of tools, form the iVe Ecosystem which supports investigators throughout the entire vehicle forensics process. There is a mobile app for identifying vehicles, performing automotive network acquisitions, and viewing collections, a hardware kit for acquiring vehicle systems, and a robust forensic software for analyzing data to uncover what happened, where it occurred and who was involved.
Booth #26
10430 Furnace Road, Suite 107, Lorton, VA 22079
www.bodetech.com
For over 25 years, Bode Technology has been leading the forensic industry in innovation and timely resolution within the criminal justice system. Bode offers state-of-the-art forensic DNA technology along with an array of industry leading DNA collection products that serve law enforcement and identification communities worldwide.
2575 Park Lane, Suite 110, Lafayette, CO 80026
www.casecracker.com
CaseCracker was developed to record easily and reliably, store, search and share your important interviews. High-definition Audio/Video, tamper-proof, controlled access, and in room failure notification ensures dependability and high-level security is achieved. We are the sole provider to 2,000+ State/Local Agencies, Army CID, FBI, DEA, and numerous child advocacy centers.
Booth #25
1700 N. Moore Street, Suite 1928, Arlington, VA 22209
www.caseguard.com
CaseGuard Studio is an All-in-one Redaction Software that uses Machine Learning to automatically redact any Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from any Video, Audio, Image, Email, or Document files with any extension. We have developed the best Machine Learning Models on the market to automatically detect and redact faces, license plates, computer screens, laptops, in-car laptops, phone screens, papers, whole bodies, vehicles, and other objects from Video and Image files. Our software also uses Speech Recognition technology to automatically analyze audio from any video or audio file and then mute or bleep any Personally Identifiable Information (PII) without needing manual intervention. We have over 26 categories, including but not limited to Names, Phone numbers, Addresses, Email addresses, SSNs, Driver’s Licenses, Banking information, Credit card information, Profanity, and others that the user can choose from to redact automatically from any video or audio files. Same for documents like PDF, Eml, PST, Word, Excel, PPT, TXT, and CSV, CaseGuard will automatically scan your documents and redact all PII from an unlimited number of documents using AI. Hundreds of features are available within CaseGuard to make the user ’s life easier when it comes to redacting, editing, or enhancing files.
Booth #13
160 North Craig Street, Suite 210, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
www.cybgen.com
Cybergenetics computer automated TrueAllele® Casework interpretation technology helps investigators solve crimes involving complex DNA evidence. When your crime lab’s DNA evidence results are inconclusive, we offer a fast FREE screening of your DNA data (with results in about 3 weeks*). TrueAllele Casework probabilistic genotyping (PG) interpretation routinely solves ‘impossible’ DNA mixtures, transforming uninterpretable forensic DNA data into useful identification information. When DNA data is deemed ’too complex’ because it has too many contributors, is too degraded, includes too many family members, etc., Cybergenetics routinely provides informative results. The TrueAllele results can be used for investigative purposes as well as for court submission. Our DNA analysis routinely provides useful results in any type of case from homicides, touch and family relationship DNA, to property crime, even when lab results are inconclusive. TrueAllele Casework results have been accepted into court in most states (47) and internationally. These results have been used in more than 1000 cases. TrueAllele’s track record includes successfully helping to identifying victim remains from the World Trade Center terrorist attack. TrueAllele’s published validation studies demonstrate how the technology can separate out DNA mixtures with 4, 5, 6 and up to 10 contributors. TrueAllele compares evidence to references, as well as evidence to evidence data to provide accurate and objective results. Used for individual cases as well as serial crime, TrueAllele provides results when no-one else can. Contact us today to learn the simple truth from complex DNA.
DNA Labs International Booth #11
700 W Hillsboro Boulevard, Building 3, Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 www.dnalabsinternational.com
DNA Labs International (DLI) is a private DNA forensic laboratory with a 19year history supporting law enforcement agencies, attorneys, and government forensic labs. DNA Labs International is ANAB ISO 170 and FBI QAS accredited laboratory. When it comes to forensic casework, we are one of the top labs in the country, and we work with hundreds of agencies across the United States, Canada, and Caribbean Nations.
Booth #16
1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306 le.fbi.gov/informational-tools
The FBI CJIS Division’s Data Sharing Services Unit (DSSU) is responsible for providing the FBI and partner agencies with investigative resources, access solutions, and data sharing services in support of their criminal justice missions. As a business line owner, DSSU manages operational and strategic oversight of the following FBI programs: Law Enforcement Enterprise Portal (LEEP), National Data Exchange (N-DEx) System, Virtual Command Center (VCC), and JusticeConnect. DSSU assumes responsibility for maximizing program participation, establishing strategic partnerships, facilitating system functionality enhancements, and overall effectiveness of each system. Visit our booth to learn more about how these free services can assist in investigations.
Booth # 7
FBI Academy, 1 Range Road, Quantico, VA 22135
www.fbi.gov/wanted/vicap
Established by the DOJ in 1985, the FBI Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (ViCAP) serves law enforcement agencies across the nation by providing a free repository for behavioral and investigative information related to the following solved and unsolved violent crimes, whether or not the offender has been arrested or identified:
• Homicides (and attempts) that are known or suspected to be part of a series and/or are apparently random or sexually oriented. We do not collect gang or drug-related homicides.
• Sexual Assaults (to include rape, statutory rape, sodomy, incest, or sexual assault with an object) that are known or suspected to be part of a series.
• Missing Persons where the circumstances indicate a strong possibility of foul play and the victim is still missing.
• Unidentified Human Remains where the manner of death is known or suspected to be homicide.
ViCAP’s services include: crime analysis; the creation of timelines, investigative leads matrices, and maps; information dissemination; the facilitation and coordination of communication between agencies; task force assistance; and the development and maintenance of the ViCAP database. ViCAP’s services and database access are provided at no cost to law enforcement agencies.
Booth # 29
2609 W. Farwell Avenue, Chicago, IL 60645
www.hrwg1991.org
The HRWG, formed in 1991, is an interdisciplinary and international association of researchers and practitioners from a variety of disciplines who collaborate to discover the best ways to measure and reduce rates of lethal violence.
Booth # 3
9218 Metcalf Avenue, #364, Overland Park, KS 66212 www.iaca.net
The IACA is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) professional association comprised of criminal justice professionals, including working analysts, students, educators, researchers and private vendors. We have a common goal of furthering the field of crime analysis and the diversity of our membership provides many perspectives from which we can all learn more. The IACA Executive Board and various committees are staffed by dedicated individuals who volunteer their time to improve the profession. We offer training, literature, networking and support, all for a nominal membership cost. Membership dues, proceeds from merchandise sales and training fees all contribute to supporting and expanding the programs we offer to our members. Currently, the IACA has over 6,400 members from 83 countries.
Booth # 12
640 W Sandy Parkway, Sandy, UT 84070
www.m-vac.com
M-Vac Systems, Inc is the world’s most aggressive forensic DNA collection system. The M-Vac can collect DNA material from rough and porous surfaces that traditional methods physically can’t. The M-Vac is wet-vacuum based, much like a carpet cleaner, that can collect DNA from the cracks and crevices of most surfaces enabling investigators to collect DNA even when swabbing or other methods have failed. Specific fields of sample acquisition for the technology include: forensic evidence DNA collection, drug and chemical residue sampling, food safety monitoring, routine quality control testing, environmental bio-hazard and biological weapons detection, secure chain-of-custody and diverse research applications. We are committed to providing high quality equipment and superior customer service and support.
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs)
Booth # 15
810 7th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20531 namus.nij.ojp.gov
The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) is a national centralized repository and resource center for missing, unidentified, and unclaimed person cases across the United States. NamUs provides technology, forensic services, and investigative support to help investigators match long-term missing persons with unidentified remains to resolve cases and bring resolution to families.
Parabon NanoLabs
Booth # 30
11260 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 406, Reston, VA 20190 www.snapshot.parabon-nanolabs.com
Parabon NanoLabs provides lead generation services to law enforcement agencies around the world. Parabon’s Snapshot Advanced DNA Analysis services include:
• DNA processing (genotyping and whole genome sequencing),
• Bioinformatic mixture deconvolution,
• DNA phenotyping (basic and advanced trait prediction),
• Ancestry determination,
• Kinship inference, and
• Investigative genetic genealogy (IGG)
The Snapshot services have proven to be effective in helping law enforcement agencies around the world solve over 200 cases since May 2018. Parabon has assisted law enforcement in making a positive identification (perpetrator or unidentified decedent) at the astonishing rate of more than one per week on cases that, on average, have been cold for over 25 years. When added together, these cases represent more than 5,000 years of investigation that have been closed.
Peace River K9 Search and Rescue
Booth # 28
9326 Prospect Avenue, Englewood, FL 34224
www.prsar.org
Peace River K9 Search & Rescue (PRSAR) is a Southwest Florida-based non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation made possible by public donations and the dedication of many volunteers to provide a professional, highly trained search team for the rapid, effective, and safe return of lost or missing persons. Since its inception in 2010, the PRSAR team has grown to include not only K9 teams but Mounted Horses, Water Recovery, Divers, and Drones. PRSAR never charges for its services; however, it is ready to respond with a high level of professionalism and performance. Learn more at www.PRSAR.org.
Precision Survey Supply
Booth # 19
8628 Utica Avenue, Suite 800, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
www.precisionsurveysupply.com
Precision Survey Supply is a Public Safety Distributor for Leica Geosystems suite of Reality Capture, crime scene, and traffic accident products and software.
QIAGEN
Booth # 9
11111 Flintkote Avenue, San Diego, CA 92121
www.verogen.com/lawenforcement
QIAGEN has a leading position in the human identification and forensics market, having pioneered the introduction of commercial DNA purification kits for forensic casework samples in the late 1990s. Its comprehensive range of solutions, including sample collection and preparation kits, DNA profiling tools, and workflow automation products, are trusted by forensic science laboratories and investigators worldwide. In early 2023, QIAGEN acquired Verogen, a leader in the use of NGS technologies to further drive the future of human identification and forensic investigation. Both companies had previously been commercialization partners through a distribution agreement. This acquisition has enabled QIAGEN to offer the most complete workflow in the human identification and forensics market, solidifying its leading position.
Booth # 27
39300 Civic Center Drive, Suite 300, Fremont, CA 94538
www.soundthinking.com
SoundThinking (formerly ShotSpotter) is a public safety technology company that provides data-driven solutions to law enforcement and community assistance groups, enabling more efficient, effective, and equitable public safety outcomes. The company’s SafetySmart platform features a suite of investigative tools, such as ShotSpotter, the leading acoustic gunshot detection system; CrimeTracer, the number one search engine for investigative leads; CaseBuilder, a one-stop case management system; and ResourceRouter, software that ensures efficient use of patrol, task force, and crime analyst resources. Founded in 1996, SoundThinking is trusted to empower the decision-making of more than 200 customers and 2,500 agencies worldwide and counting, with additional community reach utilizing the Data for Good program.
ThermoFisher Scientific
Booth # 8
180 Oyster Point Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA 94080
www.thermofisher.com/rapiddna
As a worldwide leader in forensic DNA testing, ThermoFisher Scientific has been supporting the criminal justice community for nearly 30 years. We are proud to introduce our latest crime-fighting tool, the FBI NDIS-approved RapidHIT™ ID, which enables law enforcement to use DNA information to solve cases in real-time. DNA can be processed at the station or in the field and, within 90 minutes, provide answers that can immediately impact an investigation.
University of North Texas Health Science Center for Human Identification Booth # 23
3500 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth TX 76107
www.unthsc.edu/center-for-human-identification
The UNT Center for Human Identification (CHI) is a world-renowned institution for forensic DNA testing; anthropological analysis; training and education efforts; advanced research and development initiatives; digital and analytical innovation; and forward-thinking government and commercial partnerships. Made possible through state and federal funding, CHI is uniquely positioned as both an accredited crime laboratory and a research and education center operating within a university system.
Valor Technical Cleaning
Booth # 22
8000 S. Chester Street, Suite 585, Centennial, CO 80112 www.valortechnicalcleaning.com
We are Crime Scene Cleaners with Discretion & Integrity. Valor Technical Cleaning is a crime scene, suicide, blood and biohazard cleaning company with a passion for service and a willingness to give back to our communities. Our team of OSHA-compliant, GBAC certified professional cleaners approaches every job with care and professionalism, always focusing on the well-being and safety of our clients.
Waldorf University
Booth # 10
106 S. 6th Street, Forest City, IA 50436 www.waldorf.edu
Waldorf University is a leader in online education, providing degrees in over 75 areas of concentration, including associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as an extensive certificate program. Waldorf provides a complimentary, no obligation, evaluation of all professional training certificates and prior education to determine credit transfer value toward the degree of choice. Waldorf also partners with businesses and organizations to offer their employees an education benefit that includes a tuition discount and exclusive scholarship opportunities. Waldorf University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and was established in 1903.
Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates
Booth # 21
323 W. Galena Boulevard, Aurora, IL 60506
www.w-z.com
Wicklander-Zulawski & Associates is a consulting and training organization dedicated to supporting professionals in the difficult task of identifying the truth. Our passion for the truth has led us to become a world leader in non-confrontational investigative interview training. WZ facilitates over 450 programs annually for clients in human resources, loss prevention, executive management, compliance, law enforcement and government agencies. Each program is specifically designed with the individual client to ensure maximum application value.
The Wounded Blue Booth # 5
3540 W. Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89102
www.thewoundedblue.org
The Wounded Blue’s Mission is to improve the lives of injured and disabled Law Enforcement Officers. We provide assistance, intervention, education and counseling services to officers and their families who have experienced incidents that have disrupted their lives.
The daughter of IHIA Member Preston Hollis, is currently attending Harding University as a rising sophomore. She enjoys volunteering her time working with special needs children and the annual Florida Strawberry Festival and feeding the homeless at her local church. She is also part of Feeding America and the Hillsborough County Education Foundation. She considers herself a quiet leader as she is not the most vocal, but strives by leading by example with integrity, empathy and looking out for the underdogs. She credits her grandfather as being one of the most influential people in her life. He was always willing to be the first to do hard things and was able to tackle most difficult tasks with ease. She is inspired to be like him because of his grace, compassion and love for other people.
The daughter of IHIA Member Paul Suding, is starting her master’s degree program at Western Governor’s University, seeking a master’s in education. She obtained her B.A. Degree from George Mason University, graduating with Summa Cum Laude in 3 years. She was the President of the Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Club where she created and planned tournaments. She credits her brother as one of the biggest influences in her life. He has always been by her side and supported her in all life aspirations. He inspires her everyday to do good in the world and to help others. Her long-term goals are to work with the National Park Service, to be out in the field and teach others about history and natural resources.
The daughter of IHIA Member Darin Lee, will be attending Kansas State University seeking a degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences. She was the valedictorian at her high school and received several awards for her academic excellence. She volunteers at her local church, leading the youth groups, bible studies and working at the Northland Therapeutic Riding center, where she assists children and adults with special needs with horseback riding lessons. Another one who leads by example, she uses her knowledge, competence and kindness toward others as her basis for leadership. She is inspired by her friend, Megan, who helped changed her life. Since 4th grade, their amazing friendship has grown tremendously. She credits Megan on introducing her to the most important person in her life, Jesus.
The son of IHIA Member Tony Watson, is currently attending Florida State University seeking a degree in Finance. He volunteers for numerous causes including several Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office charity events and with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. He also leads by example, as he brings others along to participate in the numerous charitable events and extracurricular events he participates in. He credits his father as the biggest influence in his life. He has taught him to never give up, emphasizing the importance of believing you can do something even if you say that you can’t. His kindheartedness in helping others has also inspired him to do the same.
IHIA would like to thank our Exhibitors & Sponsors for their efforts and support of the IHIA Symposium 2024
The IHIA is the world’s largest and fastest growing organization of homicide and death investigation professionals. The non-profit organization represents the largest network of homicide professionals and practitioners ever assembled. The IHIA has representatives in every U.S. state and nations on six continents.
• Directory of Active Members and Contact Information
• Scholarship opportunities for family members of active IHIA members
• Reduced cost for Annual Symposium
• $50 off any of our Basic, Advanced, Cold Case or Mass Casualty courses
For more information visit IHIA.org