The Silent Witness - Rocky Mountain Division of the IAI

The
Silent
Witness
The Official Publication of the Rocky Mountain Division of the
International Association for Identification
Volume 42
Number 4
The 2008 Joint CAPET/RMDIAI Conference
was held at the Doubletree Hotel in Colorado
Springs.
See articles and photos inside.
CONTENTS
Officers/Board of Directors/Committees
From the Editor
Dues Renewal
Life Members and Past Presidents
2008 Fall Conference Review
General Business Meeting Highlights
Congratulations - Anthony Antuna
Photo Contest Winners
Congratulations - Tom Adair
Training Review by Michael Reid
Corrections
Getting To Know You - Andi Smith and Chris Loptien
Upcoming Training
2
3
4
5
6
16
19
22
24
26
27
28
32
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“Every man owes a part of his time and money to the business or industry in which he is engaged.
No man has a moral right to withhold his support from an organization that is striving to improve
conditions within his sphere.” President Theodore Roosevelt - 1908
Officers
Chris Loptien
President
Jefferson County Sheriff
200 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80401
303-271-5649
cloptien@jeffco.us
Andrea “Andi” Smith
Vice-President
Douglas County Sheriff
4000 Justice Way
Castle Rock, CO 80109
303-660-7557
asmith@douglas.co.us
Angie Fisher
Executive Secretary and Editor
Westminster Police Department
9110 Yates Street
Westminster, CO 80031
303-658-4268
afisher@cityofwestminster.us
Julie Kovats Fulton
Membership Secretary
Ft. Collins Police Department
2221 Timberline Road
Ft. Collins, CO 80525
970-221-6830
jfulton@fcgov.com
Wendy Kipple
Treasurer
Dillon Police Department
P. O. Box 335
Dillon, CO 80435
970-262-3418
Cowgirlcop6@yahoo.com
Anthony Antuna
Historian
UNC Police Department
501 20th Street
Campus Box 27
Greeley, CO 80639
970-351-1993
Anthony.antuna@unco.edu
Kathy Harding, Webmaster
Douglas County Sheriff
4000 Justice Way
Castle Rock, CO 80109
303-660-7557
kharding@douglas.co.us
Regional Representative
Tom “Grif” Griffin
CBI – Denver
690 Kipling Street
Denver, CO 80215
303-239-4276
Tom.griffin@cdps.state.co.us
Board of Directors
Jan LeMay, Chairman
Weld County Sheriff
910 10th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
970-356-4015 x 4654
jlemay@co.weld.co.us
Brenda Harris, Director
Broomfield Police Dept.
7 Des Combes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
303-438-6416
bharris@ci.broomfield.co.us
Crime Scene Certification
Committee
Latent Print Certification
Committee
Rebecca Shaw, Director
Arapahoe County Sheriff
13101 E. Broncos Parkway
Centennial, CO 80112
720-874-3664
rlshaw@co.arapahoe.co.us
Carolyn Barker, Chair
18936 W 62nd Avenue
Golden, CO 80403
303-278-0048
Fngerprtgal@aol.com
Mitzi Staufer, Director
Silverthorne Police Dept.
601 Center Circle
Silverthorne, CO 80498
970-262-7328
mstaufer@silverthorne.org
Julie Kovats Fulton
Ft. Collins Police Department
2221 Timberline Road
Ft. Collins, CO 80525
970-221-6830
jfulton@fcgov.com
Jody Murphy, Director
Parker Police Department
19600 E. Parker Square Drive
Parker, CO
303-805-3355
jmurphy@ci.parker.co.us
Wayne Bryant
CBI
301 S Nevada
Montrose, CO 81401
970-249-0242
Wayne.bryant@cdps.state.co.us
Audit Committee
Ramsey Training
Reimbursement Committee
Anthony Antuna, Chair
UNC Police Department
501 20th Street
Campus Box 27
Greeley, CO 80639
970-351-1993
Anthony.antuna@unco.edu
Angie Fisher
Westminster Police Dept.
9110 Yates Street
Westminster, CO 80031
303-658-4268
afisher@cityofwestminster.us
Brenda Harris
Broomfield Police Dept.
7 Des Combes Drive
Broomfield, CO 80020
303-438-6416
bharris@ci.broomfield.co.us
Tom Adair, Chair
Westminster Police Department
9110 Yates Street
Westminster, CO 80031
303-658-4269
tadair@cityofwestminster.us
Steve Adams
Arapahoe County Sheriff
13101 E. Broncos Parkway
Centennial, CO 80112
720-874-3668
sadams@co.arapahoe.co.us
Chris Loptien, Chair
Jefferson County Sheriff
200 Jefferson County Pkwy
Golden, CO 80401
303-271-5649
cloptein@jeffco.us
Samantha Stairs
Douglas County Sheriff
4000 Justice Way
Castle Rock, CO 80109
sstairs@douglas.co.us
George Slack
UNC Police Department
501 20th Street
Campus Box 27
Greeley, CO 80639
970-351-2245
George.Slack@unco.edu
Forensic Photography
Certification Committee
Jan LeMay, Chair
Weld County Sheriff
910 10th Avenue
Greeley, CO 80631
970-356-4015 x 4654
jlemay@co.weld.co.us
David Spraggs
Boulder PoliceDepartment
1805 33rd Street
Boulder, CO 80301
303-441-4477
spraggsd@ci.boulder.co.us
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From the Editor,
This issue is all about the first joint Fall Conference with RMDIAI and CAPET.
If you were unable to attend, you missed a very informative conference. Both
of the Board of Directors and the Conference Planning Committee decided to
try something a little different this year, and we incorporated several different
and new ideas into the conference. We have received some feedback
regarding these changes and appreciate any feedback you can give us. We
strive to make the conference educational, cost effective and a place for you to
network. We really appreciate your honest opinions and ideas. Please
Contact any Board Member with your suggestions, complaints or kudos.
I also need your help with articles for the Silent Witness. Have you worked an
interesting scene, taken a training class, received an award, moved into a new
facility or purchased new equipment? Write a quick review or article and send
it to me for publication in your Silent Witness.
You can mail it to me:
Or email it to me:
Angie Fisher
Westminster Police Department
9110 Yates Street
Westminster, CO 80031
afisher@cityofwestminster.us
In order to more easily distribute information contained in the RMD Newsletter, The
Silent Witness, the RMD hereby grants permission for reproduction of articles presented in
the Newsletter, provided the appropriate authorship, article title, publication, and issue credits
are stated, unless otherwise noted.
The views in articles contained in The Silent Witness do not necessarily represent the
views of the RMD-IAI. The Division neither guarantees, warrants, nor endorses the views of
techniques presented, but offer the information to the membership.
Some articles may contain processes utilizing chemicals, or combinations of
chemicals which may be hazardous or potentially hazardous to the user’s health. It is strongly
recommended that appropriate precautions be exercised when using such chemicals.
Extreme care should be utilized when using chemicals or combinations thereof wherein the
hazards are not fully known. The RMD assumes no responsibility for the use of chemicals or
combinations of chemicals as set forth in any article.
Articles to be considered for publication should be titled, to include author credits and
pertinent reference when appropriate, and mailed, or emailed, to the Newsletter Editor. The
editor reserves the right to have Board approval of any article that is deemed controversial.
All submitted articles, photographs and supporting paperwork become the property of the
RMD-IAI.
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Rocky Mountain Division
of the
International Association for Identification
2009 Dues Renewal
and
Membership Information Form
Please fill in all blanks or note that they are “Not Applicable” to you.
Full Name ___________________________________________ Membership # _______________
Job Title ____________________________________________
Agency _____________________________________________ Work Phone#________________
Business Address _____________________________________ Fax # ______________________
Home Address ___________________________ City ___________________ State ___ Zip ______
Home Phone # ________________________ E-Mail _____________________________________
Supervisor’s Name _________________________________________Phone # ________________
Please mail all correspondence to my: Home ____ Business ____ address.
Indicate Your Primary Work Discipline(s) Most Frequently Practiced:
____ Fingerprint Identification
____ Polygraph Examination
____ Laboratory Analysis
____ Forensic Photography/Imaging
____ Questioned Documents
____ Crime Scene Investigation
____ Voice Identification/Acoustics
____ Forensic Art
____ Firearms & Toolmarks
____ Footwear & Tire Tracks
____ Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
____ Innovative/General Techniques
____ Forensic Anthropology
____ Forensic Odontology
If certified, level and discipline ________________________________________________________
Are you also an IAI (Parent Body) member? ____ Yes ____ No IAI Member # _______________
Please Forward Your Dues in the Amount of $20.00 to:
Wendy Kipple, Treasurer
P. O. Box 1442
Fairplay, Colorado 80440
Dues must be paid by April 15th to maintain your membership in good standing. Make checks payable to
RMDIAI.
Your canceled check will serve as your receipt. If an additional receipt is required, please enclose a self
addressed, stamped envelope.
Thank You.
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It’s that time of year.
Don’t forget to renew your dues. Complete the
renewal form on page 4 and send it today.
CONGRATULATIONS!
The following members have been with the RMD for 25 years or have been past
presidents.
Life Members
Past Presidents
Carolyn Barker
Wayne Bryant
James Davenport
Kathleen Egli
Clinton Fullen
Gary Hilton
Dave Lutter
Herb MacDonell
Allen Martin
Donald Niles
Jerry Phelps
George Slack
Charles Stewart Jr.
Tom Adair
Steve Adams
John Anderson
Kevin Anderson
Anthony Antuna
Sue Bailey
Carol Brown
Cordell Brown
Charles Cates
Bruce Davis
John Dietrich
Greg Eilers
Katherine Ellis
Paul Frey
John Graham
Tom Griffin
Bob Hille
Bob Houchins
Julie Kovats-Fulton
Jan LeMay
Doug Monsoor
Richard Piper
Gary Rini
Jim Shipman
Lee Spatafora
Jack Swanburg
Ken Van Cleave
Life Members in 2008
Johnny Burch
Diane Cloyd
Joe Gentile
Charles Illsley
Lynn Orvis
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2008 Fall Conference Review
Colorado Springs, Colorado
We would like to thank and recognize the vendors and advertisers who
supported our conference and shared their knowledge of their products
and services.
Sagem Morpho
File on Q
AFIX Technologies
Improve Group
Mike’s Camera
MAM-A CD and DVD
Laser Technology
American Solutions
3rd Tech
Rees Scientific
Lynn Peavey
Sirchie
Forensic Magazine
Ideal Innovations
Crime Tech
Property Room.com
Forensic Source
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Speakers and Presentations
DNA Panel Representatives:
State Representative Cheri Jahn,
Jan LeMay, Criminalist Weld County Sheriff’s Office
Leslie Hanson, Assistant District Attorney for Douglas County
Tracy Crede, Evidence Technician Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office
This panel discussion gave great insight to the many hours of work that
went into writing the DNA Bill - H.B. 1397. The panelists discussed the
group that was formed to research and write the bill. They explained how
the bill would impact casework, collection and handling, storage and
disposition of DNA evidence. There were many questions raised with
regard to the wording of the bill and the interpretations of it. The panelists
took notes and explained that they would take the questions and feedback
directly to the original group and make modifications as necessary.
To learn more about the DNA Bill go to www.dna.gov
Leslie Hanson
Tracy Crede
Cheri Jahn
Jan LeMay
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Jeff Marmaro - Agent, Colorado
Bureau of Investigations
Mr. Marmaro presented the new
computer based evidence booking
system that CBI will be
implementing in the near future.
This system will be internet based
and will allow users from the various
law enforcement agencies to
pre-book evidence through their
desktop computers. There will also
be a kiosk available at the Colorado
Bureau of Investigations for the
book-in process. This computer
based system will alleviate the need
for the previously used handwritten
forms as well as the cover letter.
Jeff Marmaro
This computer system will also
allow attachments of photographs
and word documents that may be
of assistance to the laboratory
staff.
Megan Murphy - Evidence
Technician, Colorado Bureau of
Investigations
Ms. Murphy discussed the impact
this new system called Forensic
Advantage would have on the
Evidence Technicians bringing
evidence to CBI. The system is
being tested at this time and
should be available soon.
Megan Murphy
More information: cbi.state.co.us
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Dr. Rick Snow - Forensic Anthropologist
Georgia Bureau of Investigation
Dr. Snow spent a full day with us. He had
several different presentations regarding
the work he has done in Kosovo and
Bosnia and the numerous mass graves
there. He presented the Tri-State
Crematory incident that took place in
Georgia where the crematory operator
buried 339 bodies in mass graves, vaults
or left them in the woods to decompose.
He also gave several case presentations
about how to deal with bodies thrown into
unused wells and the excavation process
necessary to safely remove them.
Dr. Snow had great photographs and gave
us interesting information about the work
that he has done across the world.
Greg Tharp, Detective
Greeley Police Department
Detective Tharp was the lead detective on
the highly publicized Shawna Nelson murder
case and subsequent jury trial. He provided
us with a great overview of the entire case.
He spoke about the interviews he had with
Shauna and other people involved. He
talked about the evidence collected and the
analyses performed. Detective Tharp spent
countless hours putting the case file
together to have a very successful outcome.
Ultimately, Shawna Nelson was found guilty
of the murder of Heather Garraus and was
sentenced to life in prison.
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We tried something new
with our vendors this
year. Instead of having
them sit in the hallway for
3 days, we tried a
concept we called Vendor
Night. We spent 4 hours
networking with them and
other participants. This
allowed members to
really talk to the vendors
and try their products.
Special door prizes, food
and drink were provided
by our vendors and
according to feedback we
have received, it was a
very successful evening.
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Doug Peavey gets a helping
hand from Andy Horton
(Mike’s Camera).
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We had great attendance at the conference.
Samantha Stairs did a great job
being our Hospitality Suite hostess.
THANKS SAM!
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Members of both Boards
of Directors work late into
the night putting the
registration packets
together.
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Conference registration
The Conference Planning Committee
Angie Fisher, Chandra Thurston, Andi Smith, Brenda Harris and Jody Murphy
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The General Business meeting was held on Thursday, October 16, 2008.
General Business Meeting Highlights
A quorum was present with thirty (30) members present and
twenty-one (21) agencies represented.
President Loptien called for nominations from the floor and LeAnn Dingman
was nominated for Board of Directors. Jan LeMay moved to close the
nomination process and accept the slate of officers as nominated by the
Past Presidents by acclimation with the exception of the Board of Directors
and Historian. Greg Eilers seconded the motion and the slate of officers
except for Board of Directors and Historian was elected by acclimation.
Candidates in attendance were provided the opportunity to address the
membership regarding their desire to serve on the Board of Directors.
Written balloting followed. The 2009 RMDIAI Board is:
Chair: Chris Loptien
President: Andrea “Andi” Smith
Vice-President: Brenda Harris
Treasurer: Wendy Kipple
Executive Secretary: Angie Fisher
Membership Secretary: Julie Kovats Fulton
Historian: Cheri McAlister
Editor: Michael Reid
Webmaster: Kathy Harding
Board of Directors:
Ken Pomeranz
LeAnn Dingman
Jody Murphy
Mitzi Staufer
The gavel plaque and the traveling presidents plaque was awarded to the
incoming Board Chairman Chris Loptien by the outgoing Chairman Jan
LeMay. The board members were installed by Jan LeMay. Chris Loptien
awarded the gavel to Andi Smith.
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MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Membership secretary Julie Kovats Fulton made a verbal report stating that
currently the RMD has 261 members in good standing. There are 228
Active members and 33 Associate members. Of the Active members, 19
are Life Members and 27 are Past Presidents. There are 215 paying
members. The RMD has accepted 32 new members since September 2007.
Julie recognized John Anderson, Diane Cloyd, Bruce Davis and Joseph
Gentile and for their 25 years of membership (Life Membership) in the RMD
and congratulated them for achieving this status.
Julie continues to update the RMDIAI membership email directory and has
over 250 email addresses in the directory.
LATENT PRINT CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE
Julie Kovats Fulton passed along information from Committee Chair Carolyn
Barker. She explained that the committee had received and approved five
(5) certification applications, two (2) re-certification applications and had
proctored four (4) certification tests. The committee also reviewed six (6)
applications for the final steps, all resulting in approval for certification by
the committee. The committee is pleased to congratulate six (6) new
CLPE’s. The RMD is among the top number of applications tested in recent
years.
The testing dates for 2009 are tentatively scheduled for January 16, May 15
and September 21. Applications are due 2 months prior to the test date.
AUDIT COMMITTEE
Anthony Antuna submitted a written report stating that the 2007 Fall Audit
was conducted on November 27, 2007 by Anthony Antuna, Angie Fisher
and Brenda Harris. The committee determined that the accounts balanced
and all funds were properly accounted for.
PHOTOGRAPHY CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE
Committee Chair Jan LeMay submitted a written report and explained that
one (1) test had been proctored earlier this year. He also reminded the
membership that the IAI changed the text the test is based on. The current
books are: Photography Ninth Edition by London Stone Upton and Police
Photography 5th Edition by Larry S. Miller. The committee has 5 copies of
Police Photography and currently has no copies of Photography to lend to
members wishing to study for the test.
Ron Gabel from Denver Police Department passed all of the requirements
and tests and is now a Certified Forensic Photographer. He has also
volunteered to serve on the committee, filling the last remaining vacant
position.
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RAMSEY TRAINING REIMBURSEMENT COMMITTEE
Committee Chair Chris Loptien reported that one (1) member had been
approved and received a check and one (1) member had made a request for
Jimmy C. Ramsey Training Reimbursement. He explained that payment is
made when applicants submit all the appropriate paperwork, receipts and
training write-ups.
HISTORIAN
Historian Anthony Antuna submitted a written report explaining that the store
brought in $533 during the 2007 conference and that Jan LeMay had added
several items of historical value, including crime scene textbooks and
photographs to the RMD.
TREASURER
Wendy Kipple submitted a written report showing the Division took in
$45,631.08 between 09/12/07 and 10/14/08. The Division spent $12,968.18
during the same time period. Total assets were $48,640.49 with $7829.99 in
restricted funds.
EDITOR
Angie Fisher reported that the Silent Witness is back on track. Three Editions
have been distributed, with the fourth edition due in November. The Board of
Directors discussed the cost effectiveness of mailing the Silent Witness versus
electronic distribution. Policy 34 – Publication of Newsletter Business Edition
was amended to reflect that the Business Edition will be distributed to all
members. Letters will be mailed to those members that do not have email
addresses informing them of the change. There will be a few members who
will receive a black and white photocopy of the Silent Witness. The full-color
versions can be found on the RMD website.
WEBMASTER
Kathy Harding submitted a written report explaining that she had received the
external hard drive and the website has been backed up and she would like to
perform a monthly backup. More space has been added to the server so that
Kathy can continue to add documents and update posted information. There
are currently 14 articles in the RMDIAI Library, located in the ‘Members Only’
section.
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POLICY COMMITTEE
No report submitted. Angie Fisher read Article IV, Section 9 – Conference
Planning Committee to the members. This is an addition to Article IV and is
regarding the formation of a Conference Planning Committee. A motion
was made to accept Article IV, Section 9 by Jan Lemay, seconded by Julie
Kovats Fulton and it passed by voice vote with no dissenting members.
Executive Secretary Angie Fisher will forward this addition to the
Constitution to the parent body in accordance with Article XVII, Section 1.
Angie Fisher also read Policy #44 to the members. This is an addition to
RMD Policies and is in regard to the Duties and Responsibilities of the
Conference Planning Committee.
BODY ID TEAM
Wendy Kipple explained that the Body ID Team would like to get back
together and is working on the logistics and getting equipment organized.
CONGRATULATIONS ANTHONY ANTUNA!
Anthony was unable to attend the conference, but the
announcement was made that he had been nominated for
and was the recipient of the Jay Jensen Memorial Award.
Please see the website for his nomination letter.
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Incoming Chairperson Chris
Loptien receives the gavel plaque
from outgoing Chairperson
Jan LeMay.
Chris Loptien awards the gavel to Andi Smith.
2008 Board of Directors being sworn-in.
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Colorado Association of Property Evidence Technicians (CAPET) and
The Rocky Mountain Division of the International Association for
Identification (RMDIAI)
Fall Training Conference
CAPET and RMDIAI joined forces to host their first joint Fall Training
Conference on October 15th—17th in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The
training was held at the Doubletree Hotel and Conference Center.
The conference facility was very nice and the hotel rooms were spacious
and comfortable. A total of 105 people attended the conference. There
were 20 RMD members, 6 people who have dual memberships, 20
non-members of either organization and the rest were CAPET members.
Planning a conference that meets the needs of two disciplines was a
challenge that both Boards were willing to take on. Both Boards had to be
flexible to allow for meetings and differences between the two
organizations. A Conference Planning Committee was formed and they
worked very closely with hotel staff, Convention and Tourism board, and of
course their respective Board of Directors.
A big change to the format of the usual RMD conferences was that there
was no formal banquet. Instead, a new concept was tried and “Vendor
Night” was developed. Our vendors are very appreciated at the conference,
however, they only have a few minutes to mingle during breaks and down
time. Vendor Night allowed the 11 vendors to set up their tables and
network for 4 hours, allowing members to really talk to them and try their
products. There was a lot of great food and drink, as well as really good
door prizes, all provided by our vendors. A big thank you goes out to
every one of them.
The photography contest was back with huge success. The photographs
were accepted in digital format and placed into a slide show presentation.
Participants voted and the winners were announced during vendor night.
Mike’s Camera donated four (4) $100 certificates - one to each of the First
Place winners of the four categories.
The Technical Law Enforcement Category was won by Wendy Kipple.
The General Law Enforcement Category was won by Ken Pomeranz.
The General Interest/Open Category was won by
The Masters Category was won by Jan LeMay.
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There was no official theme for this years training as in the past. The
speakers covered a wide range of topics including: a panel discussion
regarding House Bill 08-1397 - the DNA Bill, Megan Murphy and Jeff
Marmaro from CBI discussed evidence handling at the CBI counter as well
as the new computer data entry system used for CBI Laboratory requests.
Dr. Rick Snow presented the Georgia Crematorium Disaster, Kosovo Human
remains identification and gave several case presentations regarding the
recovery and identification of human remains located in wells and shallow
graves. Detective Greg Tharp presented his involvement in the Shauna
Nelson murder case and subsequent trial. All of the speakers were
excellent and provided participants with insight into special evidence
handling, new legislation and case presentations.
I know that the Conference Planning Committee and the members of both
Boards of Directors hoped that all conference participants felt welcome, had
the opportunity to network and meet new people and learn from the training that was provided. Of course, we strive to make every conference
worthwhile and excellent training. We appreciate any and all feedback and
ideas that you may have. We hope to see you at the 2009 conference.
Wendy Kipple - Technical Law Enforcement Category
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Ken Pomeranz - General Law Enforcement Category
Judy Eggers - General Interest/Open Category
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23
Tom Adair receives the Jay Jensen Memorial Award.
CONGRATULATIONS TOM!
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The Jay Jensen Memorial Award is given to members
in good standing “for exceptional work in the field of
identification sciences or through, his, her or their
devoted, diligent work on behalf of the RMDIAI,
having greatly enhanced the image, integrity and
morals of the organization as a whole and have
thereby brought credit to the high goals and integrity
of the identification sciences”.
The Jay Jensen Memorial Award has been
awarded to eleven members.
Jimmy C. Ramsey
Capt. Robert Nicoletti
Agt. Cordell G. Brown
Agt. Kenneth VanCleave
Douglas M. Monsoor
Det. Steve Adams
Jack Swanburg
Sue Bailey
Agt. Tom “Grif” Griffin
Sgt. George Slack
Greg Eilers
Sgt. J. Anthony Antuna
Thomas W. Adair
Lakewood P.D.
Denver P.D.
CBI - Pueblo
CBI - Pueblo
Lakewood P.D.
Arvada P.D.
Arapahoe County
CBI - Denver
CBI - Denver
UNC P.D.
Lakewood P.D.
UNC P.D.
Westminster P.D.
1983
1984
1986
1992
1994
1995
1996
1997
1999
2001
2004
2008
2008
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Training Offered At the Center for Domestic Preparedness
By Michael Reid
I recently attended training on Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Crime Scene
Management and Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Evidence Collection at the Center for
Domestic Preparedness (CDP), where I learned how to manage a Chemical, Biological,
Radiological, Nuclear, or Explosive (CBRNE) crime scene. A CBRNE event is a terrorist
attack aimed at a critical infrastructure and is often recognized by multiple events or mass
casualties. Crime scene management is usually not on a first responder’s mind at a chaotic
event, but evidence needs be properly recognized, handled and secured in the event of a
CBRNE incident so that it can be used in prosecution of the crime. The Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI), under authority of the United States Attorney General, shoulders the
responsibility for all crime scenes where a CBRNE act has occurred. As we all know, FBI
resources are often spread thin and local agencies are usually called upon to handle
operations when an event occurs.
The Crime Scene Management course consists of 8 hours of instruction on response phases,
legal issues, personal protective equipment (PPE), decontamination, responsibilities at a
CBRNE event, and utilization of the Incident Command System during an event.
The HAZMAT Evidence Collection course consists of 16 hours of instruction on the FBI’s
Hazardous Materials Response team and the FBI’s Evidence Response Teams and their
12-step Crime Scene Search Protocol. Our class practiced what we learned in the classroom
by participating in a mock CBRNE crime scene in which we donned personal protective
equipment, defined our decontaminated areas, established a decontamination corridor,
surveyed the hazardous conditions using various direct-reading instruments, collected
material samples, photographed and sketched the scene, collected evidence, and exited the
area via the decontamination corridor. The scene was managed using the Incident
Command System. While processing this mock scene, the instructors treated our class to an
unexpected second event which we had to process while we still had teams working the first
scene. Throughout this course, instructors continually stressed awareness of secondary
releases or explosions targeting first responders.
Now for the best part - this training is completely paid for by the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security/ Federal Emergency Management Agency, under which the CDP falls.
CDP personnel handle flight arrangements, transportation, lodging, and feed you quite well.
The CDP is located at the former Fort McClellan Army Base in Anniston, Alabama. They offer
numerous resident and road courses to emergency responders at all levels of government as
well as for the private sector. The instructors for these courses come from diverse
backgrounds and all of them do an excellent job.
The next scheduled date for WMD Crime Scene Management and HAZMAT Evidence
Collection is the week of March 22-28, 2009. Information can be found at
https://cdp.dhs.gov/. Information specific to the WMD Crime Scene Management and
HAZMAT Evidence Collection course can be found at
https://cdp.dhs.gov/schedules/program/u.html.
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OOPS… Please note these corrections from the
membership roster published in the last Silent Witness.
Cindi Rieb’s email should be cindirieb@msn.com
Clay Buckingham’s work phone # is 970-365-4015
Kathy Egli’s work phone # is 971-673-8289
Andrea McDonald’s last name has changed to Stephen
her new email address is AKStephen@co.arrapahoe.co.us
Board of Directors
2009
Chairperson:
President:
Vice President:
Treasurer:
Executive Secretary:
Membership Secretary:
Historian:
Editor:
Webmaster:
Board Member:
Chris Loptien - Jefferson County SO
Andrea “Andi” Smith - Douglas County SO
Brenda Harris - Broomfield PD
Wendy Kipple - Dillon PD
Angie Fisher - Westminster PD
Julie Kovats Fulton - Fort Collins PD
Cheri McAlister - Littleton PD
Michael Reid - Arvada PD
Kathy Harding - Douglas County SO
LeAnn Dingman - Fort Collins PD
Jody Murpy - Parker PD
Ken Pomeranz - Lakewood PD
Mitzi Staufer - Silverthorne PD
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Andi Smith
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office
What or who got you started in this field?
I started my path as a Public Safety Cadet at Denver PD attending college and
aspiring to be a veterinarian. I was assigned in the DPD Crime Lab doing menial
tasks such as answering the phones, errands to get glassware for the Chemists, and
washing the lab glassware…. Not very exciting. I had the opportunity to accompany the Crime Scene Investigators on call outs. Doing menial tasks such as holding
coats, cups of coffee, flashlights, and carrying camera, and fingerprint cases. After
watching the DPD CSI on call outs I was hooked and decided this was it. This was
what I wanted to pursue. I received most of my fingerprint training on the job at
DPD.
How do you feel when you know you will have to testify in court (nervous, excited,
how do you prepare, etc.)?
I usually start preparing a week prior to court by reviewing my report, notes, diagrams and photographs so I am prepared for the unexpected. I’m usually so nervous by the time it’s my turn to testify… I feel like I have to vomit and tend to pace
a lot. Usually after I get through my name, current employer I’ve settled down and
I’m more focused on the task at hand.
What impact does your chosen career have on your family/friends?
The CSI career has had a significant impact on my family life. Dinner, days off,
birthday celebrations, holidays the pager goes off and events get re-scheduled at
the last minute or the events continue without you being present. Having a fiveyear-old child that doesn’t understand why Mommy always has to work. Although
he has made the association of Mommy works to get money and going to the store
he gets spoiled.
What three pieces of advice would you give to someone who wanted to break into this
field?
Make sure you have a strong stomach. You will get the opportunity to see and smell
things the average person couldn’t even imagine. And just when you thought
you’ve seen everything, someone surprises you and not in a pleasant way.
Be self motivated and persistent, there is always something new to learn.
What will you do when you retire?
Travel and spend time with my family.
How do you cope with the reality of what you see and know about humanity?
This career field is very humbling. When I find myself complaining about something
trivial and then have to respond to a crime scene such as a Death Investigation.
This is where the reality check comes into play and my perspective gets snapped
back into reality. When I think I’m having a bad day I’m always reminded it could
be worse and to be grateful for the blessings in my life.
What gets you through the average work day?
Milk chocolate and a Pepsi, not usually together or in that order, it’s also a good
motivator for those who want to push their requests to the front of the line.
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How do you “decompress” after a particularly rough scene?
Usually I’m exhausted from working and by the time I arrive at home there are the
house hold chores such as laundry, grocery shopping and Mommy duties to tend to.
And as any Mom could tell you, that’s always a great distraction to look forward to.
On the other hand, if my child is at daycare, a very large glass of Shiraz with something to fill my stomach, an empathetic ear and a good night’s sleep do the trick
too.
What do you wear at work, uniform or civilian clothing?
A regular work day would be a gray polo shirt with the department logo, blue BDU
pants with a black leather belt, and black work boots.
A court day it would be a formal light blue uniform shirt, blue BDU pants with a
black leather belt, and black work boots.
What are your favorite foods/favorite meal?
Steak Filet, cooked until it’s still slightly mooing, baked sweet potato and a very
large glass of Shiraz.
What is your dream vacation?
After spending several nights on crime scenes in the cold this past winter ….some
place warm, preferably upper 80’s with a spectacular view such as a beach with
soft white sand… Hawaii would be lovely!
Dinner in or dinner out?
Dinner out is safe for everyone involved in having to eat my cooking, as I usually
burn everything. I can mix chemistry to process evidence, but I can’t cook a meal.
Do you have any pets?
One very fat, lazy and hairy black and white cat named Sox, one short-haired tiger
tabby named Houdini and one miniature terrier, which looks like a rat, named Stuart Little.
Do you ask someone to record the news if you know you will be on?
No, I don’t watch the news…it’s too depressing. My family, usually my son, will say,
“I saw you on T.V. and when are you coming home?”
After being on the news I do receive phone calls from friends and co-workers to
say, “I saw you on TV and how are you doing?”
How does your spouse/significant other feel about what you do for a living?
Having my significant other in the same line of work makes explaining how my day
was much easier because he has an empathetic ear.
What do you love most about your job?
I like that everyday is different, it’s never the same the puzzle.
What do you like the least about your job?
Not having meals, when the craving hits, and not being able to tend to other bodily
functions because I’m usually on a crime scene. You get to eat and take care of
other bodily functions when the work is done.
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen/done at work?
Big, strong male cops become scared little boys when you hand them a pair of
gloves and ask them to help move a decedent from a scene.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy oil painting landscapes. After my first full-time job as a CSI and my second
full-time job as Mom I don’t have much time to paint.
The Silent Witness
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Chris Loptien
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
What is your favorite field of forensic science (whether your own specialty or another)
and why?
I think the Crime Scene field offers the most variety and interest.
What or who got you started in this field?
My first glimpse into this field was in college. I was getting a chemistry degree but
didn’t really like chemistry. Forensics was an option and seemed liked more fun
than working in an environmental or research lab.
What do you feel are the 3 most important characteristics or personality traits for
someone in your specialty?
Organization, Curiosity & Humor
What are your hobbies?
Coaching my boys in about every sport they play. No time for anything else.
How do you feel when you know you will have to testify in court (nervous, excited,
how do you prepare, etc.)?
Not my favorite part of the job.
What impact does your chosen career have on your family/friends?
Between my stories and those of my wife (nurse), my boys sometimes finish their
dinner in another room. The rest of the family and friends are always interested.
What three pieces of advice would you give to someone who wanted to break into this
field?
Internship, Internship, Internship (Be willing to move)
How do you feel about the dramatization of forensic investigation on TV?
Better then reality TV!
Who are your heroes and why?
My Dad. I have always respected and relied on his opinions.
What will you do when you retire?
They allow you to retire?
Where do you foresee your specialty headed over the next 10 years?
I think the major changes will be in the quality aspect of forensics. We seem to
continue to adapt more and more rules/policies/standards.
If you could do something else for a career, what would it be and why?
Remodel houses with my brothers. I like the demo aspect.
How do you explain your occupation to your children?
They know what I do. They have seen the pictures and spent time at the lab.
What is your most memorable crime scene?
Columbine
How do you “decompress” after a particularly rough scene?
A good comedy, something with Will Ferrell.
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Are you IAI certified in your chosen specialty and, if so, how has this impacted your
daily life?
I am IAI and ABC certified but don’t think it has really impacted me in any way.
What do you wear at work, uniform or civilian clothing?
Civilian.
Do you think the civilianization of forensic services is a good or a bad idea and why?
I think it keeps people around longer. Sworn people have the tendency to get
transferred.
What are your favorite foods/favorite meal?
Good Chili Rellenos (Crispy).
Do you play any sports?
I’m trying to improve my fly-fishing skills.
If you could go back in time, what period of time would you visit?
50’s – T-shirts and Jeans
What is your dream vacation?
Hilton Head SC. Golf, Tennis, Biking, Beach and cold beer.
Dinner in or dinner out?
Am I paying?
Do you have any pets?
I run with our Golden Retriever, Remington.
Do you ask someone to record the news if you know you will be on?
No. Hate the way I look and sound.
What is the funniest thing you have ever seen/done at work?
The deceased male that was rolled over by my co-worker and released some really
bad gas. Should have seen his face when the smell hit. We labeled that case
“Dead-Man Farting”.
The Silent Witness
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The Rocky Mountain Division is interested in co-sponsoring local
training opportunities. If you are coordinating a training class
at your facility, contact Brenda Harris to see if the RMD might
be of assistance.
UPCOMING TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
January 6-9, 2009
Finding Latent Evidence with Chemistry and Light
Frisco, Texas (Dallas area)
January 13-15, 2009
Forensic Examination of Violent Crime Scenes
Humble, Texas
Additional Information: Ron Smith and Associates at 601-626-1100 or
www.ronsmithandassociates.com
February 23, 2009
Forensic Digital Infrared & Ultraviolet Photography
Highlands Ranch Law Enforcement Training Academy, Littleton, CO
Additional Information: Brooks Photographic Imaging, LLC at 703-445-9222 or
bpi@photomail.us
http://www.brooksphotographicimaging.com
March 23-27, 2009
Detection, Recovery and Examination of Footwear Impression Evidence
Ramada Mandarin Inn, Jacksonville, Florida
Additional information: www.bodziak.com or contact Bill Bodziak at 386-447-3567
June 1-5, 2009
Spring 2009 Bloodstain Evidence Institute OR
September 21-25
Fall 2009 Bloodstain Evidence Institute
Corning, New York
Additional information: Dr. Herbert MacDonell at 607-962-6581 or
forensiclab@sny.rr.com
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www.rmdiai.org
Our webmaster, Kathy Harding has had a very busy year with
updating and revamping the RMDIAI website. It runs much
faster and has many new sections and information items for
you to check out. The Library and Archives sections are
growing rapidly, as are the Training and Jobs sections. Go to
the MEMBERS ONLY area and see the great changes Kathy
has made.
The Silent Witness is Dedicated to
Bringing Information and Continued
Education to the Rocky Mountain
Division of the International Association
for Identification.
The Silent Witness
33