The Jefferson County sheriff’s office announced that Sgt. Clayton Cantrell of the Criminal Investigation Division successfully completed the Crime Scene Technician Certificate Program through the Criminal Justice Institute of the University of Arkansas System.
The 135-hour program comprises Crime Scene Management/Photography; Sketching, Note Taking, and Report Writing; Latent Print Processing; Impression Evidence; Biological and Trace Evidence; and Crime Scene Investigation courses and exceeds the minimum requirements to apply for national crime scene certification, according to a news release.
“Sergeant Cantrell’s achievement strengthens our investigative capabilities and our commitment to evidence-based policing,” said Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. “Investments in specialized training translate directly into better casework, stronger prosecutions, and safer communities.”
Cantrell began his law enforcement career with the Redfield Police Department as a part-time 2 Officer on May 10, 2017. He joined the White Hall Police Department on Sept. 18, 2017, and graduated from the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy on April 13, 2018.
On Oct. 1, 2024, he was hired by the sheriff’s office as a sergeant assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
He holds an intermediate certificate, is a certified instructor, and is a graduate of Arkansas Leader and the School of Law Enforcement Supervision.
“Professional development is a core priority at JCSO,” Woods said.
“Specialized training like CSTCP elevates the quality of our investigations and supports fair, impartial, and effective justice across Jefferson County.”