Learn about the secrets of forensic science straight from the experts
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Over the next week, true crime enthusiasts will have a rare opportunity to discover the secrets of forensic science as experts share techniques for tracking down criminals.
Behind Crime Scene Investigations is a weeklong forensic science experience offering sessions on everything from uncovering hidden clues to understanding the psychological behavior of criminal activities — think criminal profiling — and more. The sessions take place at Arizona State University's West Valley campus.
The events kick off with a murder mystery dinner for students on March 21 and one for the community on Saturday, March 22, and end with former NCIS special agent Joe Kennedy sharing the step-by-step process of solving a cold case on March 28.
Event at a glance
Behind Crime Scene Investigations
March 21–28
ASU West Valley campus
Highlights:
- A murder mystery dinner.
- Engaging lectures and seminars.
- A cold case live show with a former NCIS special agent.
“BCSI is a weeklong deep dive into the fascinating world of crime scene investigations,” said Jackie Collins, director of community engagement for ASU’s New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. “Hear from the experts and see hands-on demonstrations of the tools of the trade including how the most miniscule evidence or digital footprints can help solve crimes.”
The event is hosted by ASU's School of Interdisciplinary Forensics — the only interdisciplinary forensics school in the nation that has trained more than 3,500 graduates in all 50 states. (Due to the sensitive nature of some of the presentations, there is a strict age limit of 16 and older to attend.)
“BCSI is for everyone who is curious about the science and technology investigators use to solve crimes,” Collins said. “We invite high school students considering a career in forensics, fans of the true crime genre or community members simply curious about the science of justice to attend. There’s something for everyone.”
CSI evidence rooms will be open from Sunday, March 23, to Friday, March 28, offering hands-on experiences with the forensic tools used by detectives.
Other workshops provide opportunities to:
- Participate in interactive opportunities and explore how police lineups can go wrong and lead to wrongful convictions.
- Learn about the secrets that fingerprints can hold and the high-tech methods detectives are now using to uncover them.
- Discover the importance of trace evidence like tiny fragments of glass, paint and fibers — that can crack even the toughest cases.
- And learn how cutting-edge techniques are used to analyze, recover and interpret evidence from devices, networks and cloud systems.
Kennedy, the special agent featured on Starz TV’s "Wrong Man," will provide an immersive experience, allowing participants to step into the role of detective, analyzing evidence and engaging in reenactments. This session is perfect for true crime fans and anyone intrigued by the complexities of cold case investigations.
The events also allow attendees to meet the scientists that are a part of ASU’s forensics school and learn about educational opportunities available. Forensic science is the study and application of scientific methods to matters of law. ASU offers more forensic degrees than any other university.
“Researchers and students at ASU’s School of Interdisciplinary Forensics are leading the way in developing the latest science and technology to solve crimes while further refining techniques to reduce wrongful convictions,” Collins said. “We look forward to community members meeting our faculty and students and learning more about the incredible work they are accomplishing.”
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