Course detail: Open-Source Intelligence for Law Enforcement

Course Description

Open-Source Intelligence for Law Enforcement provides practical instruction on how to use publicly available information to support criminal investigations. Participants will learn how to locate, analyze, and document intelligence gathered from internet based sources and social media platforms.


The course emphasizes real world application and investigative relevance. Officers will explore free tools and resources that assist in identifying suspects, developing leads, and adding critical context to cases involving online activity. Participants will also learn best practices for properly documenting open source intelligence in reports to support prosecution and maintain evidentiary integrity.


Several practical exercises are integrated throughout the course to reinforce skill development and ensure participants can apply OSINT techniques effectively in the field and during casework.


Participants should bring a laptop with internet access and verify that agency internet restrictions allow access to social media platforms.


Core Competency

Participants will apply open source intelligence techniques to collect, analyze, and document publicly available information in a manner that enhances investigative effectiveness, efficiency, and evidentiary reliability.


Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
  1. Define open source intelligence and identify appropriate resources for law enforcement investigations.

  2. Select and apply OSINT tools based on the type of crime or investigative need.

  3. Utilize social media and other online platforms to identify unknown subjects and generate investigative leads.

  4. Document open source intelligence findings clearly and accurately in investigative reports.

  5. Demonstrate applied OSINT skills through practical exercises.

Instructional Methods:

  • Lecture

  • Guided discussion

  • Hands on practical exercises

Who Should Attend:

  • State and local law enforcement personnel

  • Arson investigators

  • Civilian crime analysts

Course Requirements:

  • 100% attendance and participation

  • Laptop with internet access

  • Agency internet permissions that allow access to social media platforms

Fitness Level Necessary for Successful Completion: SEDENTARY




Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend University of Kansas sponsored events. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in an event, please email KLETC or call 620.694.1400 at least three weeks before the first day of the event. Some events may require notice earlier than three weeks and require you contact a specific individual; if so, that information is provided in the event-specific information.


Notice of Availability of the KLETC Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: 

The University of Kansas has determined that the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) main campus in Hutchinson and its regional sites in Dodge City, Hays, and Parsons are separate campuses. This determination was made in consultation with the Department of Education. The report is available online at: https://civilrights.ku.edu/cleryThe report contains information regarding campus safety and security including topics such as: campus law enforcement authority; crime reporting policies; campus alerts (Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications); fire safety policies and procedures; programs to prevent sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking; the procedures the institution will follow when one of these crimes is reported; and other matters of importance related to security on campus. The report also contains information about crime statistics for the three most recent calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred On-Campus; in On-Campus Student Housing Facilities; in Non-Campus buildings or property owned or controlled by the institution or a recognized student organization; and on Public Property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also contains fire statistics for any fires occurring in an On-Campus Student Housing Facility during the three most recent calendar years. A paper copy of the report will be provided upon request. If you would like to receive a paper copy, you can request that a copy be mailed to you by calling 785-864-6414 or emailing civilrights@ku.edu or arrange for pick-up at a KLETC location.


 Session Information: LE27032F

Schedule: Every day, starting on 11/13/26 and ending on 11/13/26
Times: 08:00am-05:00pm CST
Registration Fee : $0.00

Bulletin

Participants are required to bring a laptop computer, and they should dress in layers as the temperature in the room may be difficult to adjust.

Instructors

Name Additional Resources
Anna Hill

Facility Detail

Edwards Campus KLETC Regional Site
12600 Quivira Road - Regents Building
Overland Park, KS 66213