State of the art CASElab opens at Athens State University

ATHENS — Athens State University has opened a state-of-the-art Crime Analyzation, Simulation, and Experimentation Laboratory (CASElab) to give its students an opportunity to delve into the world of homeland and corporate security as well as criminal justice.

“The primary purpose of the CASElab is to implement investigative techniques utilized in the identification, collection, preservation, and analysis of evidence,” said Dr. Quanda Stevenson, professor of criminal justice. “The CASElab is a dedicated space for our students to engage in experiential learning through role-playing scenarios and various investigation exercises. This lab will provide students with opportunities to apply what they learn in class in a simulated space so they can learn in a safe and controlled environment.

“In addition, students will learn techniques used by the FBI, first responders, MDT, DHR, child advocacy, forensic experts, investigators, and other local, state, and federal agencies. The lab will allow faculty and practitioners to fully train our students with workforce readiness skills.” 

The CASElab gives students the chance to conduct exercises in everything from initial and critical responses, case management, home visits, active shooter, cyber criminology, crime scene and forensic investigations, fingerprinting analysis, drug identification, crisis prevention, and evidence collection.

Students will have access to professional equipment and utilize best practices regarding crime scene documentation, photography, measurements, and evidence collection techniques.

In the training area, students can analyze ballistics (e.g., comparisons of bullet striations, firing pin comparisons, etc.), prints from various surfaces, tire, and foot impressions, physical and trace evidence, and blood spatter at the scene of a crime for documentation purposes used for police reports, child abuse cases, and other legal documents.

“At Athens State, we recognize the fragile nature of our law enforcement ecosystem and the critical need for a well-trained workforce in Criminal Justice,” said Dr. David Ragsdale, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences. “The new CASElab, along with thriving academic programs in criminal justice and homeland and corporate security, demonstrate Athens State’s commitment and ability to deliver high-quality programs and relevant workforce support to our students and community.”