Criminal justice students excavate a mock crime scene

Lakeland Community College's Advanced Crime Scene Investigation class is utilizing creative mock crime scenes on campus to challenge students with real-world forensic investigation scenarios, including a brand-new clandestine grave site excavation exercise.

Taught by Dan Winterich, a retired law enforcement agent and professor in Lakeland’s criminal justice program, the intensive course features three elaborate simulated crime scenes for students to methodically investigate over the semester. The class provides hands-on practice extracting evidence, documenting scenes and building homicide cases.|

"The purpose of this class is to teach Lakeland students the real-world skills to be successful forensic investigators," said Winterich. "These advanced skills will allow them to be competitive in the job market."

With a Faculty Challenge Grant from The Lakeland Foundation, Winterich purchased forensic excavation tools and two anatomically correct skeleton models that were buried outdoors as part of a mock grave scene. Students photographed the area, sketched the scene, and carefully excavated the soil to uncover buried evidence using proper archaeological techniques.

The class also collaborates with Lakeland's information technology & computer science (ITCS) program, partnering with students in the cyber forensics class. ITCS professor Nick DiTirro's students extract data from digital devices collected by the crime scene investigation class. This mirrors how law enforcement often partners with digital forensic experts in real investigations.

"I base my case scenarios for this class on my 21 years of law enforcement experience investigating over 1,100 cases," said Winterich. "We are giving students a true-life simulation that will help them make a difference in their future forensic careers."

Lakeland aims to foster close ties between academic teachings and practical, hands-on experience. Professors like Winterich design their courses to fully prepare students for in-demand fields.

Lakeland’s criminal justice program introduces students to careers in law enforcement and corrections. It equips students with both the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers and/or additional education.

Graduates of the program will earn the Associate of Applied Science Degree in criminal justice, preparing them to enter the job market directly or to pursue a bachelor’s or graduate degree. Lakeland’s Holden University Center offers a variety of bachelor’s and graduate degrees in the field of criminal justice, so students can continue their educations right here on campus.

Spring semester starts Jan. 13. Learn more at lakelandcc.edu/criminaljus.

By: Adam Continenza, Marketing & Communications Specialist