FAQ
For Students
What types of courses does SIG offer?
SIG offers violent‐crime investigation training—e.g., homicide investigation, bloodstain pattern analysis, shooting reconstruction, etc.
What is the training format? Is it mostly lecture, or hands-on?
The training is approximately 60 % hands-on, scenario-based, with real world case-simulation components.
Who is the training for (i.e., who can attend)?
The training is aimed at law enforcement professionals, crime‐scene investigators, detective units, supervisors—people responsible for violent crime investigations.
How long are the courses?
Course lengths vary from 5 day 40 hour course to 3 day 24 hour courses. SIG also has an 8 hour course specifically for patrol officers.
Where do the courses take place?
SIG brings training to you (host-agency or location).
How do I register for a course?
You may click on the REGISTER button on the website and it will take you to the registration link where you may register and pay for the course. You may also contact SIG (via email or phone as listed on the website) to select the class that fits your schedule.
What is included in the tuition? Are materials, lodging, and meals included?
Hands-on, and classroom instruction are included with your registration. Lodging/meals/accommodation are not included — you are responsible for travel, lodging, and meals.
What should I bring or prepare for the training?
• Be ready for hands-on practicals (so dress for field work).
• Bring any required gear (e.g., boots, gloves, etc) as specified by SIG.
• Bring a notebook for classroom and documenting your investigation during the hands-on training..
Is there a certificate of completion?
Yes—upon successful completion of the course, you will receive documentation (certificate) verifying your training with SIG.
Can this training count for continuing education (CE) credits or certifications?
Many of our courses are POST-certified with SC, GA, AL, and TN. NC students have to present their certificate and agenda to receive credit.
What happens if I register but cannot attend? Can I transfer or get a refund?
Your options are:
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Contact SIG about your cancellation
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You may ask for a refund or forward your credit to another course
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You may transfer your registration to another student
Is there a maximum class size?
Yes—because of the intensive hands-on component, class sizes may be limited to ensure quality training and instructor access. Early registration is advised.
What level of experience do I need to attend?
The training is useful for both newer investigators and experienced ones—because it covers core investigations and advanced tactics.
Will the training use real case studies?
Yes—SIG emphasizes real‐world case scenarios, practical exercises, and interactive learning.
Can an agency host a SIG training at our location?
Yes—SIG offers hosted or contract training brought to the agency’s location.
For Administrators / Host Agencies
How do we arrange for SIG to host training at our facility?
Contact SIG via the HOST A COURSE button on the website, indicate your agency’s interest, proposed dates, and location; SIG will coordinate logistics.
What are the logistical requirements for a host site (classroom, field area, equipment)?
• A classroom space for lectures to accommodate 25 students.
• A secure area outdoors or realistic scene environment for hands-on exercises.
• Classroom should be equipped with a projector screen or large screen TV, computer or projector, and sound system.
• Assign a training liaison officer to coordinate registration, training facility, orientation, etc.
• Advertise the course to local agencies via email, Training Manager's meetings, Chief's meetings, etc.
What is the cost to host?
Costs vary by course, ranging from $500 to $300 per student. However, the hosting agency gets three free seats. Discounts are available for multiple registrations from the same agency. You will need to request a quote from SIG.
What is the minimum/maximum number of participants?
While exact numbers vary by course, classes with lots of hands-on components usually have a maximum cap of 20 students for safety and instructor-to-student ratio; ask SIG for recommended minimums and maximums.
Can we customize the training to our jurisdiction’s needs?
Yes—SIG is flexible in delivering training that fits the host agency’s requirements, especially via contract or hosted sessions. For new training not listed on the website, additional time will be required before scheduling.
What equipment or agency resources must the host provide?
The host agency may need to provide items like vehicles for shooting reconstructions, large rooms for bloodstain classes, mock crime scene props, and evidentiary items (or SIG may supply). Ask SIG in advance what they bring vs what the host must supply.
How is safety handled during hands-on scenarios?
Safety is a priority—SIG uses realistic but controlled scenario environments, and there should be a safety briefing and oversight by instructors.
Are instructors certified / what are their qualifications?
Yes—SIG uses instructors with extensive field experience in homicide and violent crime investigations to deliver the hands-on training and case work. Please check the Founders and Instructors page for qualifications and experience.
What materials (handouts, slides, digital files) are provided?
Course participants receive the materials or handouts necessary for each course. Students may download the entire course, but they must provide a thumb drive.
What are the travel and lodging arrangements for instructors?
SIG provides all instructor lodging, travel, meals, and local transportation.
What cancellation or postponement policy applies for a hosted course?
If the minimum number of registered (paid) students has not been reached, the class will be canceled. Usually, the minimum number of paid students is 10, but check with SIG and confirm for your specific course.
Can we bundle multiple modules (e.g., homicide + shooting reconstruction) into one training block?
No—Due to the complexity of the Hands-On training specific requirements, we cannot bundle multiple modules.
How soon can we schedule a course from initial contact?
Lead times vary depending on instructor availability, location, and scenario setup. Contact SIG early to request and lock dates.
Hands-On Violent Crime Investigation Training
Call or email us to start your training
