Course Overview

Upon completion of this 2-day training program, participants will know how to use video camcorders and associated technology to document illicit activity within jails and correctional facilities. The course will cover the use of video to document contraband concealment, assaults, injuries, cell rushes, cell searches, intakes, interviews, and custodial interrogations.

This course stresses hands-on video shooting designed on the premise that participants have little or no experience with video cameras. Numerous student videos will be reviewed thoroughly by the course instructor.

Students will learn how to use their camcorders to document trace evidence of drugs and other evidence found through the use of Alternate Light Sources. A night session will teach participants how to record video in low-light and no-light situations. Students will learn how to use auxiliary lights for both indoor and outdoor situations. A segment on sound will cover the use of camcorders and microphones for interrogation and statements, the use of covert audio transmitters and how to knock out unwanted sound.

Who Should Attend

Law Enforcement and Public Safety Professionals, Military Investigators, Jail and Correctional Facility Employees, School and Campus Security Professionals, Independent Investigators

Course Topics

• Introduction to current video equipment
• How to make your equipment a force multiplier
• Documenting contraband concealment, assaults, injuries, cell rushes, cell searches, intakes, interviews, and custodial interrogations.
• Proper use of automatic and manual focus
• Proper use of optical and digital zoom
• Recording evidence-grade video with an Alternate Light Source (ALS)
• Recording evidence-grade video in low-light and no-light environments
• Proper use of external equipment including lights, night scopes, and lens filters
• Recording controlled action to include interviews, interrogation rooms, and training events
• Duplication, preservation, and management of analog and digital media
• Introduction to current covert video equipment including body-worn systems

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