Georgia Forensic Academy

06/05/2026

Seats Still Available – Friction Ridge Comparison for CSI

Are you ready to take the next step beyond fingerprint classification and begin learning the fundamentals of friction ridge comparisons?

The Georgia Forensic Academy still has seats available in our upcoming Friction Ridge Comparison course, a 24-hour P.O.S.T. course designed for crime scene investigators seeking to strengthen their understanding of friction ridge evidence.

Prerequisite Required:
Successful completion of a 40-hour Fingerprint Science course or its equivalent is required prior to attendance.

This course is applicable toward Georgia P.O.S.T. Crime Scene Technician Certification and is ideal for investigators who want to expand their knowledge of fingerprint and friction ridge evidence.

Course Dates: August 31 – September 2, 2026
Register today:

24-Hour POST Credit applicable to a Crime Scene Technician Certification

06/04/2026

Attending training at the Georgia Forensic Academy and traveling from out of town? We are excited to announce a new lodging partnership with the Fairfield Inn & Suites Cornelia.

Through this partnership, GFA students can book rooms using our dedicated reservation link and receive a special rate negotiated specifically for Academy attendees.

Located just minutes from campus, the hotel offers a convenient option for those attending our courses.

To access the reservation link and lodging details, visit:
https://www.gaforensicacademy.com/lodging

05/22/2026

We had an unexpected audit in Latent Print Comparison this week. Hamish stopped by to conduct his own quality assurance review.

His findings:
• Student stress levels: too high
• Morale: Significantly improved
• Snacks: Not shared appropriately

We cannot confirm whether he conducted any comparisons, but he definitely identified several individuals as friend.

05/18/2026

What does it actually mean to be a certified Latent Print Examiner (LPE) in Georgia?

We get this question often and many people don’t realize just how rigorous the process truly is.

A Georgia POST Latent Print Examiner Certification is an advanced specialized certification intended for law enforcement professionals currently assigned to latent print examination duties. The certification process requires more than simply attending a fingerprint class. Candidates must complete a structured progression of advanced coursework, practical exercises, examinations, and a third-party latent print proficiency exam from an ISO/IEC 17043 accredited provider.

The Georgia Forensic Academy provides the full series of required courses that support the Georgia POST certification process:
▪️ History, Biology, and Ridgeology Concepts
▪️ Friction Ridge Analysis
▪️ Friction Ridge Comparisons
▪️ Palm Print Comparisons
▪️ Courtroom Demeanor & Latent Print Expert Testimony

These courses are taught as a series and must be completed in order due to the progressive nature of the material. Students build foundational knowledge first, then move into advanced comparison methodology, testimony, and practical application.

An added benefit for students pursuing the state certification? These courses also provide training hours toward International Association for Identification (IAI) certification at the same time.

Our current latent print series is underway, but the full sequence will begin again in January 2027 for those interested in starting the process from the beginning.

Latent print examination is a demanding discipline in forensic science that requires technical skill, analytical reasoning, attention to detail, courtroom competency, and continual proficiency testing. We’re proud to support examiners working toward this advanced certification path.

05/16/2026

*UPDATE: Only 1 Seat Remains!*

This summer, high school students won’t just learn about forensic science… they’ll step directly into the role of a crime scene investigator.

At our Crime Scene Summer Camp, students will:
- Process mock crime scenes
- Develop and lift latent fingerprints
- Document evidence like real investigators
- Explore hands-on forensic techniques
- Work through investigative scenarios with forensic science professionals

This 3-day camp is designed for incoming high school juniors and seniors (2026–2027 school year) and recent 2026 graduates interested in forensic science, criminal investigations, and public safety careers. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included each day.

Once these final spots are filled, registration closes. Learn more and register here:
https://www.gaforensicacademy.com/event-details-registration/crime-scene-summer-camp-3

05/15/2026

Registration is now open for our upcoming Bloodstain Pattern Analysis course.

This hands-on training is designed for investigators, crime scene personnel, and forensic professionals looking to strengthen their ability to recognize and document bloodstain evidence at crime scenes.

Whether you are new to BPA or looking to reinforce foundational skills, this course provides practical training that can be applied directly in the field.

Seats are limited and early registration is encouraged. Register here: https://www.gaforensicacademy.com/event-details-registration/bloodstain-pattern-analysis-4

05/15/2026

The truth doesn’t disappear with time. Join investigators, forensic professionals, attorneys, and cold case experts from across the region on July 21–23, 2026 for the Cold Case Symposium. This event will explore real cold case investigations, forensic advancements, legal considerations, investigative failures, victim advocacy, and the evolving role of technology in solving long-unsolved crimes.

Whether you work in law enforcement, forensic science, prosecution or defense, this symposium is designed to challenge the way we approach unresolved cases and inspire collaboration across disciplines.

Topics include:
• GBI Cold Case procedures
• Crime lab support in cold cases
• Legal challenges in decades-old investigations
• Investigative failures & lessons learned
• Advances in forensic technology
• Real case studies and collaborative discussions

Seats are limited. View the full itinerary and register here:
https://www.gaforensicacademy.com/coldcaseinv

05/08/2026

Not all evidence leaves a fingerprint.

Impression evidence tells a story, but only if you know how to recognize and process it correctly.

Our new course is designed to help investigators see what others miss.

Learn more: https://www.gaforensicacademy.com/event-details-registration/impression-evidence

05/06/2026

We are excited to share that Piedmont University has been awarded $608,000 in federal funding to expand and enhance our forensic science program and training capabilities. This investment will allow us to strengthen laboratory and field investigation training, purchase new forensic equipment, and continue building hands-on learning opportunities for both students and public safety professionals.

For the Georgia Forensic Academy, this means expanded opportunities to support law enforcement training, workforce development, and advanced forensic education.

This funding is more than equipment, it’s an investment in forensic scientists, investigators, and public safety professionals.

DEMOREST, Ga. — Piedmont University will receive $608,000 in federal funding to expand its forensic science program, part of a broader package of investments

05/04/2026

May the 4th Be With You

At the Georgia Forensic Academy, we don’t have lightsabers… but we do have lasers, and we actually know how to use them.

In our Shooting Reconstruction course, we use laser trajectory kits to map bullet paths with precision. It may look like a Star Wars scene… but it’s really investigators working a case and trying not to say “pew pew” out loud.

Not quite Jedi training, but close:
• Laser trajectory analysis (no, you can’t dual wield them)
• Crime scene reconstruction (less space battles, more evidence)
• Courtroom-ready conclusions (because “the Force told me” won’t hold up in court)

Around here, we don’t guess—we reconstruct. And instead of saving the galaxy, we’re helping solve real cases.

Ready to join the slightly less cool but way more practical side of the Force?
www.gaforensicacademy.com

Remember:
“This is the way… to properly document a scene.”