Investigating and Prosecuting No Body Homicides

This specialized training program examines the distinctive obstacles encountered when investigating homicide cases lacking a recovered body. Participants will discover how to navigate situations where missing persons investigations evolve into murder cases, and where the perpetrator's initial advantage combined with the absence of physical remains create significant investigative gaps.

The course offers a comprehensive framework and practical tools for constructing a strong circumstantial case regardless of case age. Expert instructors will guide participants through critical investigative methodologies including victimology analysis, strategic interviewing techniques, examination of documents and digital evidence, search protocols, and optimal case documentation practices. Additionally, the training covers proven prosecution strategies designed to enhance conviction likelihood.

Attendees will gain hands-on learning through case participation exercises, including the opportunity to present their own cases for class discussion and analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Recognize warning indicators in missing persons investigations
• Establish victim death using alternative evidence when a body is absent
• Construct a persuasive circumstantial homicide case leveraging anecdotal information and records
• Document investigations strategically to optimize case success
• Execute effective trial preparation to improve outcomes in bodyless homicide cases

Course Details

Duration: 16 hours (2 days)

Cost: $450.00

Schedule: September 28, 2026 (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM) and September 29, 2026 (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)

Location: Georgetown Public Safety Operations and Training Center, 3500 D B Wood Road, Georgetown, TX 78628

Instructors

Marianne Flynn Statz - Retired Lieutenant, Madison Police Department and NCJTC Associate. Lieutenant Statz brings extensive experience in sensitive crimes investigations, including homicides and missing persons cases. She personally investigated the 1976 disappearance of Jean Zapata, which resulted in a murder conviction despite the victim's remains never being recovered. Her career includes service on specialized units including SWAT, the Cold Case Team, and the Child Abduction Response Team. She currently serves on the Wisconsin Cold Case Review Team.

Robert Kaiser - Retired Assistant Attorney General, Wisconsin Department of Justice and NCJTC Associate. With 45 years of prosecutorial experience, Mr. Kaiser has served in both Illinois and Wisconsin, specializing in felony prosecution. He has extensive expertise in all aspects of criminal prosecution and investigation, including murder cases, and holds certification as a Trial Advocacy Instructor from the National Institute of Trial Advocacy.

Eligibility

This training is designed for law enforcement professionals, prosecutors, and related court officials. Law enforcement are strongly encouraged to attend with their prosecutors to facilitate collaborative learning.

Registration Fee Includes

The registration fee covers 16 hours of instruction, course materials, and instructional costs. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for meals, travel, and lodging independently.

Lodging Options in Georgetown, TX:

• Candlewood Suites Georgetown
• Comfort Suites
• Hampton Inn & Suites Georgetown
• Holiday Inn Express and Suites Georgetown

For questions regarding continuing education units, please consult the NCJTC policies page.