Digital Forensics IT Center Phase II

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) will utilize grant funds to implement Phase II of its Digital Forensics - IT Center (CPCC Center). The CPCC Center will improve the functioning of the criminal justice system by ensuring that local law enforcement has access to highly trained and certified cyber crime investigators. This goal will be accomplished by developing and piloting new digital forensics curricula, establishing a state-of-the-art digital forensic lab, and credentialing faculty to train current and aspiring investigators to collect digital evidence. CPCC will develop five (5) advanced level curriculum courses for degree seeking students (credit courses); and 19 training modules to advance the skills of law enforcement and other incumbent workers (non-credit modules). These courses will be piloted and promising practices will be shared regionally and nationally. The availability of a local training center will reduce training costs for public and private investigators, and community college faculty in surrounding areas.

NCA/NCF