Crime Scene Investigations were traditionally a behind-the-scenes activity of law enforcement, until popular shows like CSI brought the spectacle to the forefront.
St. Clair College students in the Protection, Security and Investigation and Police Foundations programs recently got a taste of what crime scene investigations really look like at the second annual CSI Challenge skills competition, hosted by Humber Polytechnic and Seneca Polytechnic.
Accompanied by faculty coaches, students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in this experiential learning event that was both unique and gratifying.
The CSI Challenge, pioneered by Humber and Seneca, is an innovative skills competition designed for students in Police Foundations, Criminal Justice, Protection Security and Investigation, and other undergraduate justice programs.
Participants compete in a series of tasks that include working a simulated crime scene, interviewing witnesses, and submitting detailed case reports. These submissions are evaluated by judges, and teams are recognized for their exceptional skills.
This year's challenge saw students from various institutions come together to showcase their talents in crime scene investigation, forensic knowledge, and teamwork. Each team was equipped with essential evidence collection materials and tasked with processing a simulated crime scene, interviewing witnesses, and managing their investigative process.
The competition culminated in a debrief session led by an industry expert, providing invaluable insights and learning opportunities for all participants.
"Through hands-on, real-life experiential learning opportunities in the CSI Skills Competition, our students gain invaluable experience that prepares them for the real-world challenges and responsibilities of a career in law enforcement," said Ed Marocko, a professor and program coordinator for both the PSI and Police Foundations programs. "They develop practical skills, critical thinking, and confidence that can only come from facing and solving real-life scenarios."
Students hail the challenge for its ability to simulate real-life scenarios.
"I am so happy I got the opportunity to compete in this competition this past weekend," said Keegan O'Brien, a student at St. Clair College. "I applied all of the material and information that I have learned in class in a hands-on scenario, and I believe it was a great way to help me understand the material better."
St. Clair College students compete in the CSI Challenge in January 2025, hosted by Humber and Seneca Polytechnics. (Ed Marocko/St. Clair College)
The trip was sponsored by the St. Clair College Alumni Association, Hogan's Printing and St. Clair College.
"Participating in this challenge allowed us to use our knowledge in a hands-on way. It was very thrilling and rewarding to be a part of a team, work together and complete a real investigation," said Darrelle Vaughan, another St. Clair student who made the trip. "It makes me excited about a career in investigations in the future."
"It was an invaluable experience that truly tested everything I've learned, offering us a unique and immersive glimpse into the investigative process of crime scenes. This event was not only educational but also an essential step in preparing us for careers in this field," said Mateo Mazzone.
Hogan's Printing provided the team with apparel, and St. Clair's team was recognized by the competition as 'best dressed,' boosting the team's spirit and pride.
Marcus Bastien noted St. Clair's team didn't win the competition, but the takeaways were more valuable than a trophy, calling the experience "insightful and unforgettable."
"The contest really put our individual and teamwork skills to the test and gave us somewhat of a taste of the real-world, in crime scene investigations," said Bastien. "The hands-on approach to the competition was a great way to apply what we've learned in class to a practical scenario. The knowledge of our professors was extremely helpful, as well as the encouragement and feedback."
Bastien said the group learned a lot by collaborating and bouncing ideas off each other, and "bringing all we had."
"Even though we didn't win the challenge, we gained so much experience and knowledge, had a great time working as a team, and made connections with our classmates and professors," Bastien said.
The CSI Skills event will be expanding next year to include other post-secondary institutions within the Ontario college sector.
"It was incredibly rewarding to mentor our students during the CSI Challenge. They were fully prepared to tackle any scenario that came their way," said Prof. Richard Beauchamp. "The students represented both the College and our program with outstanding professionalism. I am proud to have been a part of this experience and eagerly look forward to next year's challenge."
The next competition will take place in 2026 at Seneca Polytechnic Toronto Campus, and according to coach Marocko, "we will be ready for the challenge."
St. Clair College's CSI Challenge team of Police Foundations and Protection, Security and Investigation students and faculty. (Ed Marocko/St. Clair College)
