OJJDP FY 2022 Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force National Training ProgramCategory 2: Specialized Training on Digital Evidence Forensics, Tools, and Technology

Child exploitation in any of its forms is a national threat to youth, families, communities, and nation as a whole. The online trafficking of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) is a serious widespread problem as offenders produce and distribute untraceable, sharable, CSAM in encrypted files on the open internet and the Darknet anywhere in the world. These offenders can be effectively investigated when law enforcement is trained to understand the operation of these networks, the correct use of tools, and how to apply appropriate investigative procedures. With new digital evidence forensic tools, workflow surrounding the forensic analysis of millions of images and video files will be increased allowing investigators to focus on discovering, identifying, and rescuing child victims. In this project, the following will be delivered: (1) Deliver 28 trainings for members of the ICAC Task Force Program; (2) Deliver 10 Targeted or Tailored Trainings or Tas for members of the ICAC Task Force Program; (3) Deliver 5 live webinars for members of the ICAC Task Force Program; (4) Provide online access to relevant recorded webinars developed under funding from this and past ICAC awards; (5) Develop and maintain cadre of SMEs; (6) Develop and maintain training curricula responsive to constantly evolving technological and investigative advances; (7) Conduct comprehensive program evaluations; (8) Ensure an optimal training environment for students