IACA 2005 Training Conference - Arlington, VA

The 15th Annual IACA Training Conference, held in Arlington, Virginia from September 21st to 24th, was full of milestones and firsts. The 2005 conference was the first to give problem analysis its own track, with sessions devoted to problem identification, strategies and implementation. It was also the first conference in which the IACA Certification Exam was offered. Sally Olterman and Michele Kennedy both took and successfully completed the certification exam, making them the first and only IACA certified crime analysts. In addition, the IACA gave conference scholarships to three participants. Lastly, we had a record number of participants and the largest international contingency of any conference. Participants came from as far away as Norway, Australia and Ecuador.

This year's diverse speakers and topics covered tactical, strategic and problem analysis. These three tracks offered something for everyone - from the seasoned veteran analyst to the 'newbie', these three tracks focused on all the skill sets needed to become a certified crime analyst. The fourth track focused on computer skills and current technologies used by crime analysts. Participants were able to go 'hands on' in a computer lab donated by ESRI. These sessions showcased several types of software, including mapping and crime analysis programs. Instructors guided students through various topics, such as spatial statistics, density mapping and webpage design. In addition to these four tracks, three panel discussions addressed issues with managing a crime analysis unit, the future of the crime analysis profession and the international approach to crime analysis.

Three keynote speakers addressed various concepts and issues in crime analysis. Two of the keynote speakers, Gloria Laycock of the Jill Dando Institute of Crime Science and Rana Sampson, international crime consultant, both focused on problem analysis and the application of academic research in crime analysis. Dr. John Jarvis of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit also gave a keynote address on the progression of the crime analysis field and its impact on local, state and federal law enforcement. These three speakers gave participants new insight and ideas to take back and implement in their agencies.

The IACA also recognized several members at this year's conference. Jim Mallard was given the IACA's Executive Board award for his work on the IACA's website. ViCAP also gave Jim Mallard an award for his work in posting alerts to the IACA webpage. Dr. Rachel Boba also received the 2005 IACA Membership Award. Steve Walter from Oceanside, CA Police Department won the Best Overall Bulletin Award.

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