Credit: Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association.
Local police departments will have an easier time processing high-quality forensic evidence to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of their criminal investigations.
The Upper Moreland Police Department was one of 41 police departments across Pennsylvania to participate in the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association’s (PCPA) innovative Criminal Apprehension Technology (CAT) Training program. This initiative, supported by a $250,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), is designed to elevate the standard of crime scene documentation through advanced technology and professional training.
As part of the program, Upper Moreland officers will receive a high-performance digital camera kit valued at over $5,000. This specialized equipment is built for forensic use and will enhance the department’s ability to thoroughly process and document crime scenes—ultimately contributing to more accurate investigations and stronger evidence collection.
In addition to receiving cutting-edge equipment, two officers from the Upper Moreland Police Department will participate in an intensive three-day training course at no cost to the township. This hands-on program will provide officers with in-depth instruction on manual camera operation and advanced crime scene photography techniques. Training topics include blood spatter documentation, Blue Star Ambient photography for visualizing blood evidence, laser trajectory photography for bullet path analysis, latent fingerprint imaging, and impression evidence collection such as footprints and tire tracks.
Other departments receiving the digital camera kits include:
The training will be offered at seven locations across the Commonwealth, making it convenient for participating agencies. Officers will benefit from a blend of classroom instruction and practical, scenario-based exercises that simulate real-world crime scenes, ensuring they gain both the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to apply these skills in the field.
