The Department of Criminal Justice, Sociology and Social Work at Southeast celebrated Criminal Justice (CJ) Week on April 24 and 25 with activities such as guest speakers, demonstrations, a Q&A panel and an agency appreciation banquet.

“This is the second spring semester we have had CJ Week,” instructor of Criminal Justice Laura Krieger said. “It’s just a way for us to recognize the students going into this field, give them opportunities to meet with practitioners and current professionals in the field. Also, for us to show our appreciation for the people that are currently in the field, as well.”

Krieger said participation from local state and federal agencies provide opportunities for students to learn about the field of criminal justice.

“Cape PD has been extremely good to us every single year; this is the first year we’ve had Memphis Police Department,” Krieger said. “The Missouri State Highway Patrol is always really good to us.”

She said crime analysts who participate in CJ Week make class presentations on such topics as, criminalistics, forensic expert witness testimony, blood fluids, microscopy, and introductory analysis of pattern evidence and work well with students.

Criminalist at Missouri State Highway Patrol crime laboratory Justin Owens works in the drug chemistry section and was presenting at a booth for CJ Week.

The booth consisted of a trifold explaining each section in the laboratory and what each section would cover if an individual submitted evidence to the crime lab. There were photos of what things look like under a microscope and footprint impressions. There were also examples of clothing used for blood detection demonstrations.

Brian Ritter, and FBI agent in Cape Girardeau and senior team leader for FBI Evidence Team in St. Louis displayed one of their response vehicles that carried general evidence supplies.

He said the FBI is always looking for qualified individuals to work for them and it is a pleasure to talk to students who are wanting to further their careers in criminal justice.

Students also got an opportunity to ask questions at a panel discussion April 25.

“It’s a way for students to talk about what they can do to better prepare themselves for going out in the workforce,” Krieger said.

Criminal Justice Week concluded with an Agency Appreciation Banquet on April 25.