Search Warrant Preparation (2 Day) – Wilmington PD

This two-day course equips officers with the skills and knowledge necessary to draft effective search warrant affidavits in compliance with Massachusetts law. Taught by experienced Massachusetts investigators holding federal instructor certifications, the program focuses on practical application of state-specific legal requirements and procedures.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The class is designed to give the average officer the knowledge and ability to prepare a quality search warrant affidavit in Massachusetts. The class will be instructed by veteran Massachusetts investigators who are Federally certified instructors. The class will specifically apply to Massachusetts laws and requirements.

TOPICS

• When is a warrant needed?
• How to fill out a search warrant application
• What is probable cause & how to demonstrate it in writing
• What can be searched for
• Drug warrants
• Homicide & violent crime warrants
• Computer warrants
• Identifying location & items to be searched for
• Time constraints
• Use of named vs. unnamed informants
• Developing first time informers
• No knock vs. knock & announce
• Controlled buys
• Anticipatory warrants
• Execution / Entry issues
• Post execution reports
• All students will receive a comprehensive manual and digital files containing information pertinent to the successful preparation of a search warrant