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SPEAKERS

Meet our team of experienced forensic experts, including foster+freeman staff and experts from other agencies.

Rebecca Nick

PANEL DISCUSSION

Next Gen Forensics

Our panel of experts will seek to answer questions about where forensic technology and applications currently stand and where they feel we’re headed in the next 10 years. Attendees will also be welcome to ask questions of the panel on general forensic topics. 

Jason Cole

LECTURE

Getting The Most Out Of Your Forensic Light Source and Important Considerations

Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene because they are not visible to the naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the proper corresponding filter, it is still possible to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultra-violet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids, gun powder patterns, and fingerprints on difficult backgrounds. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be explored to aid in the detection of evidence at crime scenes

Alexis Dodson 

PRESENTATION

Utilizing Reflective UV Imaging Techniques in Fingerprint Photography

This workshop is designed for those who are seeking to expand their expertise in advanced imaging techniques, with a focus on Reflective Ultraviolet (R-UV) fingerprint photography. Participants will explore the principles behind R-UV imaging, its advantages in detecting latent prints on non-porous surfaces, after cyanoacrylate fuming, and best practices for optimizing exposure, contrast, and clarity. Through hands-on exercises, attendees will work with specialized ultraviolet light sources, filters, and camera settings to capture high-quality fingerprint images that enhance forensic examinations.

Walter Hiller 

WORKSHOP

Multi-Spectral Imaging Devices: Application Tips and Tricks 

This workshop is designed for those who are seeking to expand their expertise in advanced imaging techniques, with a focus on Reflective Ultraviolet (R-UV) fingerprint photography. Participants will explore the principles behind R-UV imaging, its advantages in detecting latent prints on non-porous surfaces, after cyanoacrylate fuming, and best practices for optimizing exposure, contrast, and clarity. Through hands-on exercises, attendees will work with specialized ultraviolet light sources, filters, and camera settings to capture high-quality fingerprint images that enhance forensic examinations.

LECTURE

Use of ALS in Injury Detection 

The goal of this course is to teach participants how to effectively use light sources to visualize and capture evidence of injuries, such as bruising and strangulation. Topics covered will include selecting appropriate wavelengths and filter combinations, photographic techniques, and the ideal characteristics of light sources. While the primary focus will be on injury documentation, the course will also address the detection of other types of evidence, such as fibers and body fluids.

Nathan Carey 

LECTURE

Trace Evidence for the Crime Scene Investigator

Crime scene investigators often times are intimidated by trace evidence. However, this evidence type can be crucial in solving cases. This presentation will introduce attendees to the collection, preservation, and analysis of trace evidence to better help them understand the importance and the value of this type of evidence in a case. Through case examples and easy to understand step by step instructions, attendees of this lecture will have more confidence when collecting glass, paint, hairs, footwear, explosives, etc.

LECTURE

Getting The Most Out Of Your Forensic Light Source and Important Considerations

Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene because they are not visible to the naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the proper corresponding filter, it is still possible to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultra-violet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids, gun powder patterns, and fingerprints on difficult backgrounds. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be explored to aid in the detection of evidence at crime scenes

Nathaniel Weston

LECTURE

Use of Coaxial Lighting for Latent Fingerprints

When processing fingerprints, examiners follow a methodology that progresses from the least to the most destructive techniques to preserve evidence. White light techniques are non-destructive tools commonly used first in this process, with coaxial illumination being one such method. Coaxial illumination has proven to be highly effective in enhancing the visualization and detection of latent fingerprints on flat and reflective surfaces. By minimizing surface reflections and enhancing contrast, this lighting technique makes fingerprint ridge detail more distinguishable, even on substrates that traditionally pose challenges for fingerprint photography. This session will explore the theory behind coaxial lighting, its practical application in fingerprint photography, and its effectiveness compared to conventional lighting techniques. Attendees will also participate in hands-on applications, gaining experience in utilizing coaxial lighting to improve fingerprint detection and documentation.

Amanda Silva

WORKSHOP

CSEye Spy: Forensic Escape Room

As forensic technology has advanced over the years, our ability to uncover evidence has grown alongside our understanding of activity-level interactions. With the abundance of forensic traces left at crime scenes, it is vital for examiners to approach their investigations methodically, scientifically, and with clear reasoning. The efficiency with which evidence is recovered and analyzed is increasingly critical in narrowing the gap between the occurrence of an event and the apprehension of a suspect. In a world where every second matters, the combined power of expertise, technology, and evidence interpretation is indispensable. This workshop offers a unique, hands-on experience where participants will work together under pressure to unravel the clues before time runs out. Equipped with a variety of forensic tools, participants must determine which technologies will best aid them in solving the mystery and escaping the challenge.

Cameron Hartwig 

WORKSHOP

Mastering Fingerprint Imaging: Advanced Techniques for Background Removal and Increasing Clarity

This 4-hour training focuses on advanced digital image enhancement techniques tailored for fingerprint photography. Participants will learn to optimize image quality by understanding and improving the signal-to-noise ratio, with practical tools for isolating and enhancing the critical details of the fingerprints. Key methods include background color removal and advanced techniques like Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) for addressing patterned noise.

The course emphasizes hands-on practice, allowing participants to apply these techniques directly to fingerprint images while maintaining image integrity and proper documentation. This session equips participants with practical skills to process and enhance fingerprint images, even those with complex and challenging backgrounds.

Brian Turner 

LECTURE

The Disappearance that Left a Trace: The Homicide Investigation of Mimose Dulcio

Mimose Dulcio was reported missed by her sister after not hearing from her for several days. Mimose was going through a divorce with her husband, Jose Pacheco, who claimed he had not heard from her in days. Deputies opened a missing persons case and after seeing visible blood drops inside the house, Detectives again made an attempt to contact Jose Pacheco. The interaction lead to series of events that left a trace to what happened to Mimose Dulcio. This case study will highlight the importance of forensic science in criminal investigations.

Matthew Marvin 

LECTURE

Are We There Yet?

What is the first thought that comes to mind when you think of new equipment, new techniques, and new abilities for your laboratory?  All the cases you’re going to solve with cutting edge technology…absolutely.  Excitement…definitely.  Validation…if we must.  So often validation is the dreaded process that must be completed before we can get to our destination of “fun with new lab stuff.”  But validation is just a research project, and what scientist doesn’t enjoy a research project?  Show up and let’s talk about what validation is, what it’s not, how to construct a good validation study, and importantly… that there is fun in the journey.

Dave Ackerman

LECTURE

Hurdles of a Cold Case: Carla Lowe

In November 1983, 21-year-old Carla Lowe was waiting for an Amtrak train at the old Delray Beach Station when she was brutally killed. Her body was discovered on a nearby road, brutally beaten and run over. That same day, authorities arrested a man named Ralph Williams on charges of grand theft auto and burglary. However, there was insufficient evidence to link him to Lowe’s murder at the time. For 38 years, the case went unsolved until new technology revealed evidence not previously seen. This lecture will discuss the challenges and importance of technology in Carla Lowe’s case as well as other cold case investigations.

Lawrence Stringham 

LECTURE

How one agency became accredited because of Foster and Freeman

The Cape Coral Police Department used a grant to acquire a DCS4 and other advance light sources. It showed the lack of policy and procedures, and the importance of getting standards. This class will discuss the importance of advanced equipment and the necessity of becoming accredited.

LECTURE

ALS Courtroom Testimony

The wave of technology can be intimidating to the new employee and old alike. How can you explain to a jury why we use ALS equipment and how does it work. This presentation will go over how ALS works, including Stoke Shift to the most effective ways to present your evidence in court.

Erik Malz  

LECTURE

Is white glove really the best approach?

Improving Laboratory quality and efficiency through examiner specialization

Many laboratories employ a “white glove approach” to casework, where one analyst or examiner sees a case through an entire process from intake to reporting. Is there a better way? This presentation will explore various alternative processes that can be implemented to increase laboratory efficiency and quality, including role specialization.

Philip Hess 

WORKSHOP

Full Spectrum Photography

This workshop provides information and hands-on practical exercises for the use of ALS and Full Spectrum Cameras to photograph various biological fluids, bruises, bitemarks, fingerprints, foreign fibers, gunpowder residue patterns, obliterate writing, and transfer footwear impressions in oils and blood. Students will be provided with mock evidence samples to photograph using different ALS’s and full spectrum cameras. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment to become familiar with their own equipment. If students do not have their own equipment, full spectrum cameras, filters, and ALS will be available for use during the exercises.

Erin West 

LECTURE

Balling on a Budget: Crime Scene Edition

Running a crime scene unit with limited funding can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can stretch your budget without sacrificing quality. This session will cover creative ways to source affordable tools, repurpose everyday items for forensic work, and invest in equipment that offers multiple uses. Attendees will learn practical, cost-effective solutions to common resource challenges, helping them work smarter even with limited supplies. Whether you’re dealing with tight department budgets or just looking for ways to maximize efficiency, this lecture will provide actionable takeaways to keep your unit running effectively without breaking the bank.

Ashley Church

LECTURE

Balling on a Budget: Crime Scene Edition

Running a crime scene unit with limited funding can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can stretch your budget without sacrificing quality. This session will cover creative ways to source affordable tools, repurpose everyday items for forensic work, and invest in equipment that offers multiple uses. Attendees will learn practical, cost-effective solutions to common resource challenges, helping them work smarter even with limited supplies. Whether you’re dealing with tight department budgets or just looking for ways to maximize efficiency, this lecture will provide actionable takeaways to keep your unit running effectively without breaking the bank.

Michael Kessler 

LECTURE

Beyond the Crime Scene: Mental Health & Resilience for CSIs

Crime Scene Investigators operate at the intersection of science and trauma, exposed daily to the aftermath of violence and death. Unlike sworn officers, CSIs often lack structured mental health resources, despite facing similar psychological risks, including vicarious trauma, PTSD, and burnout. This session explores the hidden toll of forensic work, using real-world cases—such as the tragic 2022 murder of 7-year-old Phoenix Ho—to illustrate the emotional impact of crime scene investigation. Attendees will gain practical strategies for recognizing trauma exposure, building resilience, and accessing support.

Roberto Caceres

LECTURE

Mass Casualty Response from a Crime Scene Perspective: The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting