On April 27, 2025, Investigator Nicholas Dean attended the…

On April 27, 2025, Investigator Nicholas Dean attended the Basic Computer Forensic Examiner (BCFE) course. This rigorous 2-week training, offered by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS), involved 76 hours of classroom instruction and 15 hours of lab work, and was attended by 302 computer forensic practitioners from 22 countries.

The course covered numerous topics such as Computer File Systems, Forensic Search Methodologies, Data Recovery, and Internet Artifacts to name a few. Completion of this training has equipped Investigator Dean with the basic knowledge and tools necessary to complete forensic examinations of computer systems and present the findings of those examinations as evidence in criminal prosecutions.

Over the coming months Investigator Dean will undertake a peer-review process which will test and further build upon those skills learned during the BCFE course. Upon completion of this process and successful completion of a final forensic examination project and final exam, Investigator Dean will earn the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) certification.

In a world where almost every crime has some form of computer involved, whether it be a desktop, cell phone, vehicle, or smart device, this training will enable the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office to better protect the residents of Oneida County and seek Justice for victims.