Computer Technology Training for Law Enforcement
Law enforcement officers across the country use computers as part of their job, whether it in their squad cars or the office. To ensure all officers can keep up with changes in technology, training is sometimes required in various precincts.
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Collect Evidence from Networks
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In many cases, using computer technologies is vital to obtaining evidence in a case. There are many programs offered locally and nationally, such as those provided by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, that allow law enforcement officials to get the skills needed to obtain evidence. For example, a course in computer network investigations allows officers to navigate a server and collect evidence in a forensically-sound manner that can be used in court.
Computers as Evidence
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Sometimes a computer itself may be deemed evidence in a case. A training program such as that for a seized computer evidence recovery specialist (SCERS) teaches officers how to get relevant data from the computer in question. However, a training seminar such as this usually requires the officer to have extensive knowledge of computer technologies.
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Cyber Crime
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As cyber crime -- criminal acts committed online and through computer servers -- increases, so too, does the need for trained law enforcement individuals who can combat it. The United States Department of Justice offers the Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property (CHIP) Program to officers interested in this field. In-depth knowledge of computers and networks is necessary to complete this program.
Social Networking Sites
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Officers rely on all avenues of information and social networking sites have become more relevant in their everyday search for criminals. Courses are now available that teach law enforcement professionals how to use these sites to obtain information and apprehend suspects.
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References
- Photo Credit Police image by Zeno from Fotolia.com