Training Courses

Advanced Strategies for Investigating and Prosecuting Domestic Violence

Date & Time:
  • March 15, 2027 – April 17, 2027
Location:
Sandy, UT

Training Date: March 15-17, 2027

Location: Sandy City Hall, 10000 South Centennial Parkway, Sandy, UT 84070

Cost: $450.00

Duration: 24 hours of instruction (3 days, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM daily)

Registration Deadline: February 8, 2027

Course Overview

This comprehensive three-day intensive program equips criminal justice professionals with advanced methodologies for investigating, supporting, and prosecuting domestic violence matters. Participants will develop a thorough comprehension of the multifaceted nature of domestic violence cases, with particular emphasis on strategies for managing uncooperative victims, conducting risk evaluations, and collecting crucial evidence from the initial stages of investigation. The training combines practical investigation and prosecution skills with victim-centered approaches and courtroom readiness. Expert instructors lead interactive discussions and real-world case studies to ensure attendees gain actionable strategies for improving their investigative procedures and case outcomes.

Learning Objectives

Upon completing this course, participants will be able to:

  • Utilize non-cooperative and evidence-based investigation approaches, including effective evidence gathering from reluctant victims and leveraging initial response data and physical evidence to establish compelling cases
  • Recognize power and control dynamics in abusive relationships, apply these insights to investigations, and consider unique circumstances affecting LGBTQ+ and other communities
  • Evaluate danger potential through lethality checklists and behavioral indicators, understand their purpose, and integrate risk assessment findings into investigation and prosecution strategy
  • Employ trauma-informed interview methods with both victims and suspects, particularly when managing recantations and fear-based responses, and apply forensic techniques to strangulation assault cases
  • Execute comprehensive follow-up procedures to gather additional evidence, monitor injury progression, document protection order violations, recognize the significance of victim re-interviews, and strengthen cases while prioritizing victim protection—including advanced strangulation assault investigation tactics and techniques for establishing serious physical injury to support appropriate criminal charges
  • Implement trial preparation strategies focused on victimless prosecution approaches and jury readiness, including the use of expert witness testimony
  • Apply safety protocols and mitigation techniques to minimize hazards when responding to domestic violence incidents through group exercises and discussion

Intended Audience

This training is designed for child advocacy professionals, first responders, probation and parole officers, law enforcement professionals, social workers, tribal partners, and victim service providers.

Instructors

Robert Kaiser – NCJTC Associate, Assistant Attorney General (Retired), Wisconsin Department of Justice, Madison, Wisconsin
Robert brings 45 years of prosecutorial experience, including nine years with the Cook County State's Attorney's Office in Illinois and service as an Assistant District Attorney in Wisconsin's Dane County District Attorney's Office. Since 2014, he served in the Criminal Litigation Unit of the Wisconsin Department of Justice. His extensive lecturing background encompasses prosecution and investigation methodology across numerous crime categories, trial advocacy, witness preparation, and evidence rules. He holds certification as a Trial Advocacy Instructor from the National Institute of Trial Advocacy.

Todd Curtis – Retired Senior Investigator, Wood County Prosecutor's Office
Todd is a 33-year law enforcement veteran with over two decades of investigative experience. His background includes K-9 handling and special response team participation, along with more than 20 years in law enforcement education and training. He holds court certification as a domestic violence and strangulation assault expert, OPOTA Master Criminal Investigator certification, and Certified Criminal Profiler credentials through the Forensic Criminology Institute. Todd received the 2022 Purple Ribbon Award for National Law Enforcement Partner of the Year from Domestic Violence Shelters.org. In his investigative role, he coordinated between law enforcement and prosecutorial offices, managed strangulation cases, handled complex investigations, and worked cold cases. He secured a confession in a 1981 strangulation homicide case in July 2022, with guilty plea in October 2022. Currently, Todd serves as adjunct faculty with Owens Community College's Criminal Justice Department and as an OPOTA and North Carolina Criminal Justice instructor, delivering domestic violence and strangulation training regionally and nationally. He was instrumental in advancing Ohio's strangulation legislation, enacted December 2022.

Lodging Options

  • Best Western Plus CottonTree Inn, 10695 South Auto Mall Drive, Sandy, UT 84070
  • Hilton Garden Inn - Salt Lake City/Sandy, 277 West Sego Lily Drive, Sandy, UT 84070
  • Residence Inn by Marriott - Sandy, 270 W 10000 S, Sandy, UT 84070

Fee Information

The $450.00 training fee includes 24 hours of instruction, course materials, and instructional expenses. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for meals, travel, and lodging accommodations.

Contact Information

Jessica Heimann
Phone: (855) 866-2582
Email: jessica.heimann2274@fvtc.edu