This course is designed to assist the officer or investigator on how to effectively use both traditional and digital media during investigations. Topics covered include social media and the Internet as both an investigative tool and for community outreach, creating effective media releases, using Crime Stoppers, and management of the information obtained through these methods. Additionally, practical techniques and exercises on the duties of a Public Information Officer (PIO) will be covered to include actual mock press interviews with a reporter from a local media outlet. The local media reporter will also assist in the presentation of this course. Students are encouraged to bring a laptop, as writing exercises will be assigned during the course.  

This course is one of the courses for the Criminal Investigator Certification Program.