SPEAKERS
Meet our team of experienced forensic experts, including foster+freeman staff and experts from other agencies.
Rebecca Nick
Rebecca Nick is the General Manager at Foster + Freeman USA, overseeing business strategy, market expansion, and customer engagement across the U.S. and Canada. She leads cross-functional teams, partners with federal, state, and local agencies, and drives the adoption of advanced forensic technologies. She holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from West Virginia University in forensic science, criminology, and forensic and fraud investigations.
Alexis Dodson
Alexis Dodson is a Northeast Team Lead 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.
WORKSHOP
The Science of Blood Evidence: From Physiology to Fluorescence
This lecture and hands-on blood enhancement workshop is designed to provide a deeper scientific understanding of blood evidence at the crime scene and in the laboratory. Participants will examine the physiological properties of blood and the chemical composition of natural latent print residue to support informed, case-specific decisions regarding the sequential processing of blood-contaminated evidence.
The course covers the chemistry behind common blood enhancement techniques, including how reagents function, proper application methods, limitations, and potential pitfalls.
The practical portion of the workshop focuses on fluorescent blood enhancement using Acid Violet 17, Acid Fuchsin, and Acid Yellow 7. Participants will utilize the Crime-lite AUTO to search for, detect, and document enhanced evidence.
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
Advanced Crime Scene Search Techniques Using the Crime-lite AUTO
This hands-on workshop provides a comprehensive exploration of advanced light techniques for forensic evidence detection and visualization. Participants will examine the strategic application of alternate light source (ALS) technology to locate and enhance biological fluids, latent fingerprints, and gunshot residue (GSR) across a variety of substrates. The course extends beyond foundational ALS use, introducing specialized illumination techniques tailored to specific evidence types. Oblique lighting will be demonstrated for the enhancement of three-dimensional surface detail, including impressions and textured evidence, while coaxial illumination will be utilized for the examination of latent prints on flat, reflective surfaces. Additional approaches include reflective ultraviolet (UV) imaging, as well as infrared (IR) fluorescence and IR reflectance to reveal otherwise obscured or invisible evidence.
The workshop will also address the integration of ALS with dye-stained fingerprints, emphasizing how proper wavelength selection and filtration can significantly improve contrast and visualization. Through practical exercises and scenario-based applications, participants will develop a systematic and methodical approach to crime scene searches, improving both detection efficiency and documentation quality.
This training is designed for forensic practitioners seeking to expand their technical proficiency and fully leverage the capabilities of the Crime-lite AUTO in operational environments.
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 & WORKSHOP
BEYOND THE VISIBLE: MASTERING LONG-WAVE vs. SHORT-WAVE UV REFLECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
Reflective ultraviolet (UV) photography can be a very powerful tool when photographing fingerprint evidence. This class will explore the advantages and limitations of both reflective long-wave UV (LWUV) and short-wave UV (SWUV) photography. Participants will compare LWUV and SWUV photography through hands-on demonstrations, side-by-side image comparison, and discussion of the equipment necessary for each technique. Attendees will gain practical understanding of which reflective UV technique to select for optimal results based on the evidence they are presented with.
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
Advanced Crime Scene Search Techniques Using the Crime-lite AUTO
This hands-on workshop provides a comprehensive exploration of advanced light techniques for forensic evidence detection and visualization. Participants will examine the strategic application of alternate light source (ALS) technology to locate and enhance biological fluids, latent fingerprints, and gunshot residue (GSR) across a variety of substrates. The course extends beyond foundational ALS use, introducing specialized illumination techniques tailored to specific evidence types. Oblique lighting will be demonstrated for the enhancement of three-dimensional surface detail, including impressions and textured evidence, while coaxial illumination will be utilized for the examination of latent prints on flat, reflective surfaces. Additional approaches include reflective ultraviolet (UV) imaging, as well as infrared (IR) fluorescence and IR reflectance to reveal otherwise obscured or invisible evidence.
The workshop will also address the integration of ALS with dye-stained fingerprints, emphasizing how proper wavelength selection and filtration can significantly improve contrast and visualization. Through practical exercises and scenario-based applications, participants will develop a systematic and methodical approach to crime scene searches, improving both detection efficiency and documentation quality.
This training is designed for forensic practitioners seeking to expand their technical proficiency and fully leverage the capabilities of the Crime-lite AUTO in operational environments.
Cameron Hartwig
Cameron Hartwig has over six years of experience training on photography systems at foster+freeman and currently leads the U.S. training program. 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
Advanced Fingerprint Imaging Techniques: FFT and other background removal
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.​​
Keith Fowler
Keith Fowler is a Business Development Manager for Foster + Freeman USA. In this role, he primarily focuses on expanding Foster + Freeman’s presence for the Questioned Document Examination (QDE) product portfolio across the United States and Canada. He utilizes his technical and practical expertise in forensic document examination to support law enforcement, forensic laboratories, and government agencies.
Prior to joining Foster + Freeman USA, Keith served as the Resident Agent in Charge (RAC) for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Pennsylvania. During that time, he conducted and supervised numerous multi-faceted, complex investigations involving identity and financial fraud, narcotics smuggling, immigration fraud, child exploitation, public safety, and national security. Keith served as a National Program Manager in the Identity and Benefit Fraud Unit at HSI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. where he primarily focused on the design and implementation of the national HSI Department of Motor Vehicles outreach initiative, which focused on the detection, investigation, and deterrence of internal and external fraud related to the issuance of driver licenses. He began his career in federal law enforcement as a U.S. Customs Special Agent in Baltimore in 2002 and retired in June 2026.
LECTURE
The Hidden Threat: Understanding and Combatting Document Fraud
Document fraud is a growing global concern that affects governments, businesses, and individuals alike. This presentation examines the nature of document fraud, including common techniques such as forgery, counterfeiting, and digital manipulation. It explores how fraudulent documents are used in identity theft, financial crimes, and unauthorized access to services.​
The presentation also highlights key indicators used to detect fraudulent documents, including inconsistencies in formatting, security features, and data verification methods. In addition, it discusses the evolving role of technology—both as a tool for committing fraud and as a means of prevention through advanced authentication systems, biometric verification, and digital tracking.​
By analyzing real-world examples and current trends, this session aims to raise awareness of the risks associated with document fraud and provide practical strategies for prevention and detection. Attendees will gain a better understanding of how to identify suspicious documents and implement safeguards to reduce vulnerability.
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Ashleigh Berg
Ashleigh Berg is the Senior Forensic Investigator for the Denton County Sheriff’s Office in Denton, TX and has worked in forensics since 2010. Ashleigh holds a Master Peace Office License and is a TCOLE Instructor who holds a Bachelor’s degree with a split major in Forensic Science and Criminal Psychology and a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology. Ashleigh is a Certified Latent Print Examiner, a Certified Bloodstain Pattern Analyst, and a Certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst by the International Association for Identification. She has been qualified as an expert in the areas of crime scene investigation, latent print identification, bloodstain pattern analysis, shooting incident reconstruction, and crime scene reconstruction in multiple Texas district and federal courts and consults on major cases in multiple jurisdictions. She also serves as an adjunct instructor and course-content developer for the Texas A&M Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Texas Forensic Science Academy, was appointed to the Licensing Advisory Committee to the Texas Forensic Science Commission in 2025.
LECTURE & WORKSHOP
Can You See Me Now? Documentation of Blood, GSR and Other “Invisible” Evidence on Dark and Difficult Surfaces with IR, UV, and ALS Applications
Have you ever looked at a piece of dark-colored or patterned evidence and thought, “I know it’s here but I just can’t see it” or “I’m not really sure how to document it”? Do you have access to IR, UV, or ALS capabilities but struggle with proper deployment of those assets? Are you curious about how such tools can enhance your documentation suite? If so, then this is the workshop for you! Lecture based on the instructors’ casework combined with hands-on exercises will empower participants to photographically document blood, GSR, and other evidence on dark and patterned surfaces using IR, UV, and ALS applications.
Ashley Church
Ashley Church has long pursued her passion for forensic science, beginning with an internship at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and advancing her education with a Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Entomology from the University of Florida. Her early work included laboratory research, collaboration with specialists, and training and supervising assistants. Ashley built her career as a Crime Scene Investigator with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, becoming a field training officer, and later joined the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, where she was promoted to Forensic Supervisor overseeing the Forensic Unit and Pre-Screening DNA Laboratory. A former Certified Crime Scene Analyst through the IAI, she now works full-time with Gap Science, combining her expertise with an engaging, modern teaching style to inspire professionals in the field.
LECTURE
Unlocking Funding: How to Find, Write, and Win Grants
Securing grant funding can be a complex and often overwhelming process—but with the right approach, it becomes a powerful tool for bringing ideas to life. This workshop provides a comprehensive, practical guide to navigating the grant writing process from concept to completion.
Participants will learn how to evaluate whether a project is truly fundable, identify and access both public and private funding opportunities, and understand the four primary types of grants. The session will also cover how to assess whether a specific grant opportunity aligns with organizational needs and goals.
In addition, attendees will gain step-by-step insight into crafting a compelling grant proposal, along with an overview of the full grant lifecycle—from initial idea development to post-award management. Designed for beginners and those looking to strengthen their approach, this workshop equips participants with the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to pursue and secure funding successfully.
Erin West
Erin West began her forensic career in 2006 as a Crime Scene Investigator with the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in Florida and went on to serve as a Battlefield Forensics Instructor for the U.S. Army Intelligence Center of Excellence, training military personnel for overseas investigations. She later held leadership roles with a DOJ Forensic Laboratory at American Systems and as a Latent Print Examiner with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, where she was promoted through multiple supervisory positions to Crime Scene Manager, overseeing several forensic units. Erin holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Forensic DNA and Serology from the University of Florida, along with a Graduate Certificate in Forensic Toxicology. She is an IAI Certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst and Certified Latent Print Examiner, an active member of the IAI and its Florida Division, and co-founder of Gap Science LLC, where she provides training and resources for forensic leaders.
LECTURE
Unlocking Funding: How to Find, Write, and Win Grants
Securing grant funding can be a complex and often overwhelming process—but with the right approach, it becomes a powerful tool for bringing ideas to life. This workshop provides a comprehensive, practical guide to navigating the grant writing process from concept to completion.
Participants will learn how to evaluate whether a project is truly fundable, identify and access both public and private funding opportunities, and understand the four primary types of grants. The session will also cover how to assess whether a specific grant opportunity aligns with organizational needs and goals.
In addition, attendees will gain step-by-step insight into crafting a compelling grant proposal, along with an overview of the full grant lifecycle—from initial idea development to post-award management. Designed for beginners and those looking to strengthen their approach, this workshop equips participants with the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to pursue and secure funding successfully.
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.
Dave Gamble
David T. Gamble joined the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office in 1991, as a sworn police officer. He spent 18 of his 21 years processing crime scenes with a specialty in forensic photography. During this time, Dave was responsible for upgrading the office from film-based photography to digital imaging.
Upon retirement from the Prosecutor’s office as a Sergeant in September of 2012, Dave founded Investigative Photography, LLC, which provides consulting services for attorneys and private industry. He conducts trainings
for outside agencies, local and state law enforcement agencies, and international agencies including the South African Police Service with an emphasis on digital imaging and alternate light source photography.
He is certified as a Forensic Photographer and Crime Scene Investigator through the International Association for Identification and served as the secretary for the Forensic Photography Certification Board.
LECTURE & WORKSHOP
Photography Basics with Alternate Light Source Capture
This course will prepare the attendee with the basic knowledge of camera operations and how to apply it to photographic documentation with Alternate Light Sources.
Camera Basics
How to Hold the Camera
Date/Time Settings & Significance
Diopter
Formatting Media
Image Settings JPEG v TIFF & RAW
Introduction to the Exposure Triangle and Camera Operational Modes
The importance of sensor size in forensic photography
Putting aperture, shutter speed and ISO together will make a better image
Determining Proper Exposure
Shutter Speed
Aperture
ISO
Camera modes
a.Program
b. Shutter priority
c. Aperture priority
d. Manual
Lenses
Focal Length – Field of View & Magnification
Focal Range/Lens Ratio/Lens Ring Size
Prime Lens
Zoom Lens
Lens Length and Distortion
Optical Problems
Putting it all together with the Alternate Light Source
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
Building Latent Fingerprint Database with Multiple Substrates and Development Techniques
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.
Jennifer Peterson
Jennifer J. Peterson earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Utah and completed her Forensic Death Investigation Graduate Certificate at the University of Florida.
Since 2006, Jennifer has worked as a Forensic Scientist and holds certifications as a Certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst (CSCSA) and Certified Latent Print Examiner (CLPE).
From 2009 to 2010, Jennifer deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, where she served as Deputy Director of the Combined Explosives Exploitation Cell – Biometrics Laboratory. In this role, she specialized in the forensic analysis and exploitation of improvised explosive device (IED) evidence. She regularly provided expert testimony for the Law and Order Task Force and the Iraqi Judicial Courts.
In 2012, Jennifer deployed to Afghanistan as an instructor at the Afghan Criminal Techniques Academy, teaching courses in latent print processing and evidence collection.
Jennifer has also worked with the Biometric Identification Management Agency within the U.S. Department of Defense and the Salt Lake City Police Department.
Through her company, J13 Forensics LLC, Jennifer contracts on forensic research projects and provides forensic training throughout the United States in latent print processing, crime scene management, and forensic blood evidence. J13 Forensics also regularly consults on criminal investigations and cold cases.
WORKSHOP
The Science of Blood Evidence: From Physiology to Fluorescence
This lecture and hands-on blood enhancement workshop is designed to provide a deeper scientific understanding of blood evidence at the crime scene and in the laboratory. Participants will examine the physiological properties of blood and the chemical composition of natural latent print residue to support informed, case-specific decisions regarding the sequential processing of blood-contaminated evidence.
The course covers the chemistry behind common blood enhancement techniques, including how reagents function, proper application methods, limitations, and potential pitfalls.
The practical portion of the workshop focuses on fluorescent blood enhancement using Acid Violet 17, Acid Fuchsin, and Acid Yellow 7. Participants will utilize the Crime-lite AUTO to search for, detect, and document enhanced evidence.
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.
Matt French
Dr. French, is a Physician Consultant for French Forensics. He is a practicing Emergency Medicine Physician in Kansas City. Additionally, he serves as the Medical Director for a rural Michigan adolescent-adult SANE program. Caring for patients who have been sexually and physically assaulted, along with his Master degree with a concentration in forensic medicine, allows him to contribute academic and clinical content to projects.
LECTURE & WORKSHOP
Bridging the Gap: ALS Injury Detection and Documentation – SANE to Law Enforcement
To Be Announced
Jane French
Jana has a long standing commitment to ensuring clinicians everywhere are educated, feel clinically confident and supported in their pursuit of caring for patients of violence. In 2005, Jana began a career in Emergency Medicine and three years later, trained as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). Jana became SANE-A Certified in 2010. Since then, she has continued to work in various roles in Forensic Nursing program leadership, clinically and as a telehealth SANE.
LECTURE & WORKSHOP
Bridging the Gap: ALS Injury Detection and Documentation – SANE to Law Enforcement
To Be Announced
Shannon Knudsen
Executive Director and Founder of S.A.F.E Center Iowa, Shannon currently coordinates Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner response for both Polk and Story counties collaborating care at eleven exam sites, and developing policies and procedures. She is currently leading the only qualified SANE Training in Iowa with the S.A.F.E Center of Iowa.
Shannon holds international certifications of SANE-A (for adults), SANE-P (for pediatrics), and advanced training in strangulation assessment. Shannon brings extensive expertise in women’s health and forensic nursing to the state of Iowa. She has served as a statewide technical advisor for sexual assault examiner programs since 2014. Additionally, Shannon’s expertise subject matter is recognized in her role with LETACC, an Institute for Intergovernmental Research (IIR) as an international speaker/trainer/and consultant regarding sexual assault.
Shannon frequently collaborates with community SARTs nationwide and provides expert witness testimony in court. She serves on the state’s medical advisory sexual assault board, was a founding member of the Story County Human Trafficking Response Team, a member of the sexual assault kit initiative project in Iowa, a member of the DHS complex MDT peer review team for complicated child abuse cases, and a consultant for NSVRC in the review of the SART tool kit.
Ms. Knudsen was recently recognized by the Office of the United States Attorney in which she was presented the Victim Service Award. Shannon has been recognized with the prestigious honor by Today’s Nurse as one of America’s top Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners in 2025.
Carol Ritter
Carol Ritter began her career in 1997 as a forensic scientist with the Pennsylvania State Police Crime Laboratory, working on drug, burglary, sexual assault, and homicide cases, including bloodstain pattern reconstruction. She is board-certified, a member of leading forensic organizations, and has court qualified more than 50 times at state and federal levels in drug analysis, body fluid identification, hair identification, and bloodstain pattern reconstruction. She later served as a technical coordinator for PSP, auditing labs, training forensic scientists, and instructing law enforcement. After retiring in 2017, she joined Cedar Crest College, where she teaches and mentors students in forensic science and DNA analysis. In 2020, she started a consulting practice, continuing work in bloodstain pattern analysis and crime scene reconstruction
LECTURE
To Be Announced
To Be Announced
Daniella Stuart
Daniella is a sworn Special Agent/Crime Scene Specialist and Crime Scene Technical Leader for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. She provides on-scene training to Crime Scene Specialists and peer reviews work products. Daniella has a decade of experience working cases from burglaries to homicides throughout Georgia and Metro Atlanta officer involved shootings. Daniella is an IAI member, Georgia IAI member and Chairman of the Board, and Texas Division of the IAI member. She is a Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) instructor providing training to police academies and the Georgia State Patrol. Daniella teaches for the University of Tennessee, providing training to departments throughout the nation. She has previously worked in non-sworn crime scene positions for the Atlanta Police Department, Dekalb County Police Department, and the United States Capitol Police. Daniella has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Wake Forest University and a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice/Criminology from Georgia State University.
WORKSHOP
Vehicle Processing
This workshop will primarily discuss how to use the Crime-lite AUTO to search vehicles for trace and biological evidence. The Crime-lite Auto has various capabilities that when used properly, can greatly assist with documenting vehicle evidence. During this workshop, students will learn how to use the different functions of the AUTO to assist in casework where trace and biological evidence is significant to the investigation. Students will also view case examples where the AUTO was successful in capturing important evidence. There will also be a report writing aspect to the workshop where students will describe their use of the AUTO and the associated evidence.
Students are encouraged to bring laptops to complete the report writing and view the Auto photographs.
Lee Bellmer III
Agent Bellmer is a graduate of Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a double minor in Criminal Justice and History. Agent Bellmer began his law enforcement career in 2021 with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office in Waynesboro, Georgia, and was detached to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Gang Task Force for two years. In 2024, Agent Bellmer was hired by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, where he was assigned to the Region 14 Field Office, located in Kingsland, Georgia. Within the Region 14 Field Office, Agent Bellmer was assigned as a crime scene specialist and has received numerous hours of training for crime scene processing, evidence processing and handling, and search and seizure. Agent Bellmer has additionally received training specific with the Foster & Freeman Crime Lite Auto and has deployed it in various crime scene investigations.
WORKSHOP
Vehicle Processing
This workshop will primarily discuss how to use the Crime-lite AUTO to search vehicles for trace and biological evidence. The Crime-lite Auto has various capabilities that when used properly, can greatly assist with documenting vehicle evidence. During this workshop, students will learn how to use the different functions of the AUTO to assist in casework where trace and biological evidence is significant to the investigation. Students will also view case examples where the AUTO was successful in capturing important evidence. There will also be a report writing aspect to the workshop where students will describe their use of the AUTO and the associated evidence.
Students are encouraged to bring laptops to complete the report writing and view the Auto photographs.