SPEAKERS
Meet our team of experienced forensic experts, including foster+freeman staff and experts from other agencies.
Rebecca Nick
Rebecca Nick is the North American Sales Manager at Foster + Freeman USA. She has been with the company since 2017. She received a Bachelors of Science in Forensic and Investigative Science and a Bachelors of Art in Criminology as well as a Masters of Science in Forensic and Fraud Investigations from West Virginia University. She completed a comprehensive internship with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Her roles at Foster + Freeman include sales, installation, and training for various company products. She specializes in crime scene investigation, laboratory analysis and processing of evidence, and latent impression development and capture. She has presented at multiple divisional and national International Association for Identification educational meetings as well as numerous other professional conferences on the topic of crime scene investigation, forensic photography, and latent fingerprint imaging.
PANEL DISCUSSION
Next Gen Forensics
Our panel of experts will seek to answer questions about where forensic technology and applications currently stand and where they feel we’re headed in the next 10 years. Attendees will also be welcome to ask questions of the panel on general forensic topics.
Jason Cole
Jason Cole is a Senior Technical Sales Specialist for Foster + Freeman. Jason began his Law Enforcement career as a police officer for the Sandy City (Utah) Police Department. Later he was reassigned to the Investigations Division as the detective over juvenile crime and domestic violence crime. He also began receiving training in crime scene investigation and began to process major crime scenes for the department.
In 2001 Jason left the Sandy City Police Department and began working as a Forensic Investigator for the West Valley City (Utah) Police Department. Job duties included responding to crime scenes, working in the laboratory to chemically develop latent prints, and latent print examination. In 2007 he was promoted to be the Forensic Director of the West Valley City Police Department Forensic Services Unit.
In 2010 Jason left the West Valley City Police Department and accepted a position as a Latent Print and Footwear Examiner with the Henderson (Nevada) Police Department.
Jason served on the Board of Directors for the Utah Division of the IAI for over 10 years, including serving as President. He was awarded the Utah Division of IAI Outstanding Achievement Award in 2005.
Jason served on the Board of Directors for the Nevada State Division of the IAI for 8 years, including 6 years as President. Jason works part-time as a Latent Print Examiner for the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office. Jason serves on the Board of Directors for the International Association for Identification. Jason is a member of DMORT region IX.
LECTURE
Getting The Most Out Of Your Forensic Light Source and Important Considerations
Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene because they are not visible to the naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the proper corresponding filter, it is still possible to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultra-violet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids, gun powder patterns, and fingerprints on difficult backgrounds. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be explored to aid in the detection of evidence at crime scenes
Alexis Dodson
Alexis Dodson is a Senior Technical Sales Specialist and has been with foster+freeman since 2021. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic and Investigative Science with a minor in Psychology from West Virginia University. She’s had the opportunity to speak and teach at multiple forensic conferences, to include the IAI and regional trade shows. Growing up in a military family, Alexis has experienced living in various locations which include California, Missouri, and Okinawa, Japan. Born to travel, Alexis felt that foster+freeman would allow her to continue her love for traveling while still being involved within the forensics community.
PRESENTATION
Utilizing Reflective UV Imaging Techniques in Fingerprint Photography
This workshop is designed for those who are seeking to expand their expertise in advanced imaging techniques, with a focus on Reflective Ultraviolet (R-UV) fingerprint photography. Participants will explore the principles behind R-UV imaging, its advantages in detecting latent prints on non-porous surfaces, after cyanoacrylate fuming, and best practices for optimizing exposure, contrast, and clarity. Through hands-on exercises, attendees will work with specialized ultraviolet light sources, filters, and camera settings to capture high-quality fingerprint images that enhance forensic examinations.
Walter Hiller
Walter Hiller is an employee of the Foster & Freeman of Ashburn, VA. Walter has worked with law enforcement agencies since 2006 and has trained many departments, at all levels of government, in the use of Forensic Light Sources, RUVIS, IR and basic photography. Walter has held numerous lectures and workshops on the subjects of Forensic Light Sources and RUVIS and IR at regional IAI meetings and International conferences. Walter has acquired an extensive sales and public speaking background throughout his career and is a graduate from Montclair State University.
WORKSHOP
Multi-Spectral Imaging Devices: Application Tips and Tricks
This workshop is designed for those who are seeking to expand their expertise in advanced imaging techniques, with a focus on Reflective Ultraviolet (R-UV) fingerprint photography. Participants will explore the principles behind R-UV imaging, its advantages in detecting latent prints on non-porous surfaces, after cyanoacrylate fuming, and best practices for optimizing exposure, contrast, and clarity. Through hands-on exercises, attendees will work with specialized ultraviolet light sources, filters, and camera settings to capture high-quality fingerprint images that enhance forensic examinations.
LECTURE
Use of ALS in Injury Detection
The goal of this course is to teach participants how to effectively use light sources to visualize and capture evidence of injuries, such as bruising and strangulation. Topics covered will include selecting appropriate wavelengths and filter combinations, photographic techniques, and the ideal characteristics of light sources. While the primary focus will be on injury documentation, the course will also address the detection of other types of evidence, such as fibers and body fluids.
Nathan Carey
Nathan Carey is a Technical Sales Specialist with foster+freeman. He began working there in September of 2022. Nathan previously worked at the Lake County Crime Laboratory in the Trace Evidence Section for four years. He completed casework in glass, paint, footwear, and fire debris. Additionally, Nathan assisted with crime scene examinations. He has a Bachelor of Science in Forensic and Investigative Science from West Virginia University in 2018. Nathan was previously a member of the following organizations: International Association for Identification, Ohio Identification Officers Association, and the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists.
LECTURE
Trace Evidence for the Crime Scene Investigator
Crime scene investigators often times are intimidated by trace evidence. However, this evidence type can be crucial in solving cases. This presentation will introduce attendees to the collection, preservation, and analysis of trace evidence to better help them understand the importance and the value of this type of evidence in a case. Through case examples and easy to understand step by step instructions, attendees of this lecture will have more confidence when collecting glass, paint, hairs, footwear, explosives, etc.
LECTURE
Getting The Most Out Of Your Forensic Light Source and Important Considerations
Various types of evidence are often overlooked at a crime scene because they are not visible to the naked eye. When using an alternate light source with the proper corresponding filter, it is still possible to miss items of evidence due to background interference or improper angle of illumination. An introduction to light theory and techniques utilizing wavelengths of light beyond the visible range on notoriously difficult surfaces will be discussed. This will include ultra-violet and infrared examination to detect the presence of biological fluids, gun powder patterns, and fingerprints on difficult backgrounds. Novel oblique lighting techniques will be explored to detect evidence on raised surfaces and footwear impressions. Bandpass filtering techniques will also be explored to aid in the detection of evidence at crime scenes
Amanda Silva
Amanda obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic and Investigative Science, with a minor in Anthropology from West Virginia University before joining foster+freeman USA in August of 2022. She supports the Southern Region of the U.S. and is based in Florida. Aside from her education, she is bilingual, as Spanish was her first language and she’s an avid Disney lover. In her free time, she enjoys going out for runs with her golden retriever, Mia, and reads mystery/thriller books.
WORKSHOP
CSEye Spy: Forensic Escape Room
As forensic technology has advanced over the years, our ability to uncover evidence has grown alongside our understanding of activity-level interactions. With the abundance of forensic traces left at crime scenes, it is vital for examiners to approach their investigations methodically, scientifically, and with clear reasoning. The efficiency with which evidence is recovered and analyzed is increasingly critical in narrowing the gap between the occurrence of an event and the apprehension of a suspect. In a world where every second matters, the combined power of expertise, technology, and evidence interpretation is indispensable. This workshop offers a unique, hands-on experience where participants will work together under pressure to unravel the clues before time runs out. Equipped with a variety of forensic tools, participants must determine which technologies will best aid them in solving the mystery and escaping the challenge.
Cameron Hartwig
Cameron Hartwig has over five years of experience training on photography systems at Foster and Freeman. He holds a Master’s degree in Forensic and Investigative Science from West Virginia University, where his coursework focused on advanced image enhancement techniques and image informatics.
WORKSHOP
Mastering Fingerprint Imaging: Advanced Techniques for Background Removal and Increasing Clarity
This 4-hour training focuses on advanced digital image enhancement techniques tailored for fingerprint photography. Participants will learn to optimize image quality by understanding and improving the signal-to-noise ratio, with practical tools for isolating and enhancing the critical details of the fingerprints. Key methods include background color removal and advanced techniques like Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) for addressing patterned noise.
The course emphasizes hands-on practice, allowing participants to apply these techniques directly to fingerprint images while maintaining image integrity and proper documentation. This session equips participants with practical skills to process and enhance fingerprint images, even those with complex and challenging backgrounds.
Mack Brazelle
Mack Brazelle is a Fingerprint Specialist and has been an IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner since 2007. As the owner of Mack Brazelle Training, he teaches classes on both latent analysis and courtroom testimony. Mack is a Distinguished Member of the IAI and chaired the Latent Print Identification Science and Practice Subcommittee for ten years.
LECTURE
Why Do We Ignore Great Design?
With 15 years of experience using the Foster+Freeman Digital Capturing System (DCS), I can confidently say it is the most reliable and intuitive forensic tool I’ve ever operated. In forensics, the value of a streamlined workflow is often overlooked, but well-designed equipment should make your job easier. This system has significantly cut my processing time without sacrificing quality, making the forensic imaging process both efficient and genuinely enjoyable.
Cheyenne Remkes
My name is Cheyenne Remkes. I am the Crime Scene Supervisor at Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office in Southwest Florida and the FDIAI (Florida Division of the International Association for Identification) Region 6 Director. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with my concentration in Crime Scene Investigation in December 2019 from Weber State University in Ogden, UT. While attending Weber State University, I had the opportunity to intern with the Weber Metro Crime Scene Unit. This internship helped fuel my passion for forensics. I was hired as a Crime Scene Technician with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office in July of 2020. In October of 2024, I became the FDIAI Region 6 Director and have been fortunate to work alongside many great and knowledgeable forensic professionals. I completed my Master’s degree in Crime Scene Investigation from Stevenson University in December 2024 and was promoted to Crime Scene Supervisor in January of 2025. As the Crime Scene Supervisor, I am over the Crime Scene, Criminalistics (Latent Unit) and Digital Forensics Units.
LECTURE
Identifying the Unidentifiable
In June 2024, unidentifiable decomposed remains were located in a wooded area near multiple apparent homeless camps. No apparent personal belongings or personal identification were located within an approximately 20′ radius of the decedent and no one knew who this could possibly be.
Dr. Casper Venter
Dr. Venter is a non-tenured, clinical professor in the department, teaching forensic related courses on both the undergraduate and graduate level. He also serves as a graduate faculty for multiple research projects.
Dr. Venter obtained his first degree in Analytical Chemistry (1992) and advanced degrees in both Chemistry (1994) and Laboratory Management (2002), respectively, from the Technical University Pretoria. He completed a Master’s of Science degree in Biochemistry (2010) from North West University and, a Doctor in Philosophy in Law (2020) from the University of South Africa.
Dr. Venter started his career in law enforcement when he joined the South African Police Service in 1988, where he completed basic and advanced police training through the police academy. He was assigned to the forensic science laboratory in 1989 as an assistant forensic analyst trainee. On completion of his first degree in 1992 he was assigned to the forensic drug chemistry section as an assistant forensic analyst in Pretoria, and in 1995 he received a supervisory role and start a decentralized forensic drug section in Cape Town, South Africa.
During his 22 years as a forensic drug practitioner, he examined more than five thousand drug related cases, investigated clandestine laboratories for 13 years and testified as an expert witness for 17 years, trained and supervised multiple scientists. He was a member of clandestine laboratory investigation for chemists (CLIC) from 1997 until 2010 and attended three of their international technical training seminars. He presented on the following conferences: National Conference on Crack/Cocaine 1995, National Conference on Ecstasy 1996, first African Forensic Conference 2003 and National Industrial Chemical Monitoring conferences 2006 and 2010.
Before joining the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science at West Virginia University, he was the training, health and safety, and crime scene manager in the chemistry department of the Forensic Science Laboratory.
Dr. Venter started his academic career as a Faculty Equivalent Academic Professional (FEAP) in 2010, and was later appointed as a clinical assistant professor (Director of Forensic Facilities) in 2014. He was promoted to Clinical Associate Professor in 2018. He served as interim department chair for almost two years, before his appointment as current chair of the Department in 2021.
In his academic career he develops and teaches multiple forensic courses on the graduate and undergraduate level, serves on multiple graduate committees and conducted undergraduate research.
Dr. Venter developed a strong Latent fingerprint development and comparison program for undergraduate students since 2014. He specializes in fingerprint imaging using more advanced and novice techniques.
Dr. Venter also serves as committee member of the OSAC sub-committee on Seized Drugs since 2018, where the group establishes new national ASTM standards for practitioners in seized drug crime laboratories through NIST.
LECTURE
NAME TBD
Latent fingerprint imagery is a current challenge area in biometric and forensic applications due to the image quality issues caused by the variation in surfaces on which latents can be deposited, as well as the techniques used to develop latent fingerprints. While algorithms and latent fingerprint examiners should be trained on a wide variety of latent prints, the number of latent fingerprint research datasets is extremely limited and most of the available datasets consist of just a few substrates and development types. The goal of this project was to create a latent fingerprint and palmprint image dataset collected from 150 individuals using a variety of curved and flat substrates (porous, semi-porous, nonporous, and adhesive materials) and imaged using a variety of development techniques (1,2-indanedione, ninhydrin, cyanoacrylate fuming, dye stain, Wetwop, etc.). In addition, ground truth ink & paper finger and palmprints have been collected along with livescan and contactless imagery.
Participants had to leave clean prints (washing hands and waiting 5 minutes), sweating prints (heated hands in gloves for 5 minutes), and sebaceous prints (touching oily parts of the face/neck area). Repeated fingers and parts of the palm were collected after each phase on various substrates. Imaging of developed prints were performed by using a DCS-5 imaging system and RUVIS, both from Foster and Freeman. A total of 9 400 images of developed latent prints were collected from the 150 participants. Each image was assigned to a unique number correlated to the participant, which substate was used, developing technique and finger number or part of the palm. All images were taken in a lossless file format (RAW). All inked ten prints and palm prints were captured with Aware AFIX software using an Epson Perfection V850 Pro scanner, scanning at 1000dpi.
Researchers and trainers can now use the dataset to compare efficiency and effectiveness of comparing unknown prints with 3 different tenprint sets (inked, livescan and touchless) and be presented in the form of ROC curves.
Erik Malz
Erik Malz is a forensic consultant and latent print examiner for Ron Smith and Associates, a private forensics laboratory located in Mississippi. He is an IAI Certified Latent Print Examiner and Certified Crime Scene Analyst, with a decade of experience in forensic science and scene investigation. Additionally, he acts as an instructor for the International Latent Print Examiner Training Academy, with specializations in digital photography and latent print development.
LECTURE
Is white glove really the best approach?
Improving Laboratory quality and efficiency through examiner specialization
Many laboratories employ a “white glove approach” to casework, where one analyst or examiner sees a case through an entire process from intake to reporting. Is there a better way? This presentation will explore various alternative processes that can be implemented to increase laboratory efficiency and quality, including role specialization.
Philip Hess
Philip Hess is a Criminalist IV for the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Laboratory of Forensic Services where he has worked for over twenty years. He is the Technical Lead for the Firearms and Toolmarks Unit, Impressions (Footwear and Tire Tracks) Unit, and the Crime Scene Response Team. He is a Past President of the California Division of the IAI, is certified in Forensic Photography with the IAI, and has extensive experience teaching law enforcement officers and forensic scientists from around the world. He is also a part time Lecturer at the California State University Sacramento and University of California Davis.
WORKSHOP
Full Spectrum Photography
This workshop provides information and hands-on practical exercises for the use of ALS and Full Spectrum Cameras to photograph various biological fluids, bruises, bitemarks, fingerprints, foreign fibers, gunpowder residue patterns, obliterate writing, and transfer footwear impressions in oils and blood. Students will be provided with mock evidence samples to photograph using different ALS’s and full spectrum cameras. Students are encouraged to bring their own equipment to become familiar with their own equipment. If students do not have their own equipment, full spectrum cameras, filters, and ALS will be available for use during the exercises.
Erin West
Erin West has experience as a crime scene investigator, a latent print examiner, and several supervisory positions. She obtained her B.S. in Criminal Justice from UCF and her M.S. in Forensic DNA and Serology with a graduate certificate in Forensic Toxicology from the UF. She is currently the Crime Scene Manager at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office and oversees the Forensic, Latent Print and Evidence Units and is the co-owner of Gap Science, a company that provides training and resources to forensic leaders.
LECTURE
Balling on a Budget: Crime Scene Edition
Running a crime scene unit with limited funding can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can stretch your budget without sacrificing quality. This session will cover creative ways to source affordable tools, repurpose everyday items for forensic work, and invest in equipment that offers multiple uses. Attendees will learn practical, cost-effective solutions to common resource challenges, helping them work smarter even with limited supplies. Whether you’re dealing with tight department budgets or just looking for ways to maximize efficiency, this lecture will provide actionable takeaways to keep your unit running effectively without breaking the bank.
Ashley Church
Ashley Church is a Certified Crime Scene Analyst through the International Association of Identification and has experience as a crime scene investigator and a Forensic Unit Supervisor. She obtained her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Forensic Science from the University of Central Florida and her Master’s of Science degree in Entomology from the University of Florida. She is the co-owner of Gap Science, a company that provides training and resources to forensic leaders.
LECTURE
Balling on a Budget: Crime Scene Edition
Running a crime scene unit with limited funding can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can stretch your budget without sacrificing quality. This session will cover creative ways to source affordable tools, repurpose everyday items for forensic work, and invest in equipment that offers multiple uses. Attendees will learn practical, cost-effective solutions to common resource challenges, helping them work smarter even with limited supplies. Whether you’re dealing with tight department budgets or just looking for ways to maximize efficiency, this lecture will provide actionable takeaways to keep your unit running effectively without breaking the bank.
Michael Kessler
Michael P. Kessler, PSM-FS, FCSFS, IAI-CCSA, is an Assistant Professor of Practice in Forensic Science at Texas Tech University. He holds a Professional Science Master’s in Forensic Science from Florida International University, a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensics from The American Public University, and an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice from Holyoke Community College.
With over two decades of experience in forensic science, crime scene investigation, and forensic education, Michael has held leadership positions as Forensics Manager for the City of Denton and Director of Crime Scene Investigation and Reconstruction for Forensic Veterinary Investigations. His expertise includes forensic methodologies, crime scene reconstruction, forensic exploitation and intelligence, and the advancement of forensic science standards.
Michael is actively engaged in national and international forensic standards development. He serves as a Member of the Forensic Science Standards Board (FSSB) for the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC), Chair of the OSAC Scene Examination Scientific Area Committee, Chair of the Crime Scene Investigation Consensus Body for the American Academy of Forensic Sciences Standards Board, and as a Member and AAFS-ASB Representative to the U.S. Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Technical Committee (TC) 272 on Forensic Science. His work focuses on the development and implementation of forensic standards, best practices, and quality assurance measures to improve the reliability and accuracy of forensic evidence.
A certified Crime Scene Analyst with the International Association for Identification (IAI) and a certified Basic Property and Evidence Technician with the Texas Association of Property and Evidence Inventory Technicians, Michael is committed to the advancement of forensic science education and professional development. He serves as an editorial board member and peer reviewer for leading forensic journals, including the Journal of Forensic Identification, Journal of Forensic Sciences, and Forensic Science International: Synergy. Recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to forensic science and law enforcement, he frequently presents at professional scientific meetings and provides expert training and consultation on forensic standards, crime scene investigation, forensic leadership, and evidence management.
LECTURE
Beyond the Crime Scene: Mental Health & Resilience for CSIs
Crime Scene Investigators operate at the intersection of science and trauma, exposed daily to the aftermath of violence and death. Unlike sworn officers, CSIs often lack structured mental health resources, despite facing similar psychological risks, including vicarious trauma, PTSD, and burnout. This session explores the hidden toll of forensic work, using real-world cases—such as the tragic 2022 murder of 7-year-old Phoenix Ho—to illustrate the emotional impact of crime scene investigation. Attendees will gain practical strategies for recognizing trauma exposure, building resilience, and accessing support.
Roberto Caceres
Roberto has been a Deputy Sheriff for the Broward Sheriff’s Office since November 2002. Upon graduating the Broward County Police Academy, he was assigned to Road Patrol in May 2003. In May 2008, he transferred to the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit as a forensic investigator. After being involved in over 1,800 death and
shooting related cases, as well as approximately 300 homicides, Roberto has gained the knowledge and experience to lead and instruct forensic investigators on how to properly document a crime scene. He has been a Forensic Field Training Detective since 2014 and since then has been involved in the training of eight Detectives and three Technicians, as well as being involved with the development of forensic training with other Agencies’ CSI Units within Broward County. In 2018, he was assigned as the Lead Forensic Field Training Detective in the unit to oversee the training and development of new detectives. He has presented over 35 hours of lectures and conducted over 500 hours of hands-on workshops / trainings. Since 2010, Roberto has also been involved in 65 crime scene demonstrations for the public.
In August 2015, Roberto was selected by the U.S. Department of Defense to travel to Kingston, Jamaica to teach an introductory Shooting Reconstruction course to INDECOM, the Jamaican state agency responsible for use of force investigations of their multiple law enforcement agencies. In January 2017, Roberto took a leadership role in the Broward Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit’s portion of the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport mass shooting investigation. He led 12 Forensic Detectives with various on-scene investigative tasks in collaboration with various agencies such as the FBI and ATF. In February 2018, he was also tasked as one of the lead forensic investigators during the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting. His leadership role in conjunction with the on-scene supervisors allowed Roberto to coordinate, task, and take command of various forensic investigators from within his unit and various agencies.
In October 2018, he was awarded “Detective of the Year” from the Broward County Crime Commission for his exemplary service in the field of forensics. In 2019, Roberto co-created a presentation called, “Mass Casualty: A Crime Scene Perspective”. He has presented this lecture to various law
enforcement agencies throughout the state of Florida in addition to the 2019 FDIAI Conference in Fort Lauderdale, FL and 2022 Symposium at MiamiDade College. In November 2021, he obtained his State of Florida general instructor’s certification and is currently an adjunct instructor teaching the Crime Scene curriculum at the police academy. At the 2024 Florida Division of the International Association for Identification Educational Conference, he was the recipient of the “Jan Johnson Outstanding Forensic Science Award. While at the 2025 FDIAI conference, he ascended to the position of 1st Vice President of the Association. He is also a long-time member of two other prestigious forensic associations, the International Association for Identification and Gold Coast Forensic Association.
Roberto earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Florida Atlantic University in January 2006.