Lebanon Police Lieutenant Kacie Springer has completed the National Forensic Academy at the University of Tennessee’s Law Enforcement Innovation Center in Oak Ridge, according to an April 15 announcement. Springer joins fewer than 1,600 law enforcement professionals nationwide who have graduated from this intensive program.
This achievement brings advanced forensic skills to Lebanon, a city of nearly 16,000 residents. Such expertise is typically found only in larger metropolitan police departments and is expected to enhance local investigations.
Springer said her motivation for attending the academy came after Laclede County Sheriff’s Office Captain Casey Pitts introduced her to the opportunity. “I became motivated by the idea of enhancing my skills in crime scene processing and staying current with the latest investigative techniques to help solve complex cases. You can never stop educating yourself in this line of work,” Springer said.
The program required participants to complete a rigorous 10-week, 400-hour residential course covering more than 30 specialized forensic topics. Springer described crime scene photography as particularly challenging but noted that practice and expert instruction helped her master it. “Learning how to accurately document crime scenes through photography was tougher than I thought it would be,” she admitted.
Springer passed all practical assessments and earned multiple certifications in advanced forensic investigation techniques. She also met requirements needed for further certification exams should she choose that path. “I am most proud that I was able to successfully pass all the practical assessments and earn certifications in those advanced forensic investigation techniques,” she said.
Springer’s participation alongside Captain Pitts highlights collaboration between local law enforcement agencies. She emphasized how shared training fosters teamwork: “Shared training promotes collaboration, mutual understanding, and the development of standardized procedures between agencies.” Both officers plan to share their knowledge with colleagues across area departments.
Looking ahead, Springer said her new skills will benefit both Lebanon and Laclede County: “This training significantly enhances our ability to serve the community by equipping us with advanced forensic skills and investigative techniques… leading to quicker justice for victims and a safer environment for residents.”
