Mission Statement
The mission of this educational institution is to provide the highest quality training in the field of forensic psychophysiology using polygraph techniques. It is our further purpose to exceed the minimum standards of training requirements established by the American Association of Police Polygraphists, the American Polygraph Association, and the American Society for Testing & Materials. We will strive to meet the forensic psychophysiology needs of all sworn law enforcement officers who seek training in the polygraph technique with the most current information available and considered "the state of the art" by practicing professionals and researchers in the forensic psychophysiological detection of deception field.
(1) To provide participants with an in-depth knowledge of the field of forensic psychophysiological detection of deception;
(2) To provide participants with information and practice with the latest major polygraph techniques being taught and used in the profession;
(3) To provide participants with extensive exposure to state of the art polygraph instrumentation both analog and computerized;
(4) To provide participants with extensive exposure and practice in recognized test data analysis techniques;
(5) To provide participants with basic and advanced information and practice in productive communication, interviewing, and interrogation methods;
(6) To provide participants with the knowledge and skills to conduct a professional and ethical forensic psychophysiological detection of deception examination;
(7) To provide flexible methods of instruction to meet the unique learning styles of program participants;
(8) To provide refresher and continuing education programs for professional career development and renewal of skills by those who have allowed their skills to lapse.
1. Must be a sworn law enforcement officer or government agency investigator and sponsored by your agency (the rank of Sergeant or below will be given first preference);
2. No criminal convictions for any moral turpitude crimes or any crimes above a summary/petty offense level;
3. Knowledge and proficiency with “Windows” computer operating system is REQUIRED;
4. Five (5) years of full-time, “street” or criminal investigative experience with a public law enforcement agency, military police unit; or corrections (investigative division) agency;
5. Successful completion of 60 college credits from a regionally-accredited college/institution or an equivalent of 900 documented training hours (45 clock hours equals one 3 credit course) where no college exists but extensive criminal investigative experience does exist; official transcripts required;
7. Participants must have the ability to successfully complete graduate school level courses with this program.
The curriculum meets and exceeds the standards for polygraph schools accredited by the American Polygraph Association. The curriculum also meets and exceeds the standards established by the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM) for PDD Basic Training Institutions.
A. History of Instrumentation
B. History of Techniques
C. Noted Figures and Their Accomplishments
D. History of APA, AAPP, NPA, ACP, ISDD, and ASI including the Present Structure & Requirements of the Existing Associations
E. ASTM and It's Effect on the Forensic Psychophysiology Field
-Lecture, Discussion, Demonstration, Drawings
A. Nomenclature of Components/Units - Analog & Computer
C. Maintenance & Repair of Components/Units - Analog & Computer
D. Malfunctions of Components/Units - Analog & Computer
E. Functionality Checks of Instruments - Analog & Computer
F. Familiarity with Lafayette & Stoelting Analog Instruments
G. Familiarity with
H. Trouble Shooting
I. Instrument Research
- Lecture, Discussion, Demonstrations, Drawings, "Mock" Situations, Videos
III. Physiological, Psychological & Psychophysiological Aspects (70 Hours)
A. Systems of the Human Body
B. Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Nervous Systems
C. Interfacing of All Human Body Systems
D. General Psychological Aspects
E. Abnormal, Applied & Social Psychological Aspects
F. Personality Aspects
G. Criminal Deviance & Behavior, Particularly Sex Offenders
H. Effects of Drugs & Alcohol
I. Psychophysiology
J. Fear and It's Relationship to Deception
K. Deception and It's Relationship to Psychophysiological Response
- Lecture, Discussion, Videos, Demonstrations, Drawing
IV. Question Construction & Testing Techniques (120 Hours)
A. Semantics
B. Question Formulation - Theory, Types, Use, Wording & Practice
C. Major Test Formats - DACA Zone Comparison, DACA Army MGQT and Air Force MGQT, Backster ZCT (“You Phase”, Exploratory, SKY), Canadian Police College ZCT, Utah ZCT – also Arther, Gordon, Marcy, Matte, Reid, Relevant-Irrelevant, and Modified Relevant-Irrelevant
D.
E. Acquaintance and Sensitivity Tests
F. Statement Verification Examinations
G. Testing Victims and Witnesses
H. Criminal Specific Examinations
I. Applications for Testing Drug Use Activities and Trafficking
J. Asset Forfeiture Testing
K. Screening Examinations – R/I Tests and CQ Test Formats and LEPET Exam
L. Orientation to Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing
M. Special Testing Situations (Handicapped, Interpreters, etc.)
- Lecture, Discussion, Practice, Videos, "Mock" Situations
V. Test Data Analysis (80 Hours)
B. Specific Indicators of Deception – DACA, Utah & Research-Supported
C. Analysis of Criminal/Specific & Screening Examinations
D. Global Evaluation
E. Numerical Scoring Systems - 3 Point & 7 point Systems & Rank-Order Scoring
F.
G. Analysis of Charts Influenced by Drugs and/or Alcohol
H. "Blind" Chart Analysis & Scoring on Confirmed Charts
I. Analysis of Charts of Those With Diagnosed Mental Disorders
J. Analysis of Charts of Those With Diagnosed Physical Disorders
K. Countermeasures - Identification & Procedures & “Anti & Countering" Measures
- Lecture, Discussion, Drawings, Overlays, "Mock" Situations, Practice
VI. Interview & Interrogation (30 Hours)
A. Pre-Test & Post Test Techniques
B. Basic Communication Principles
C. Basic Interrogative & Interviewing Principles
D. Kinesic Interview Techniques
E. Non-Verbal Communication, Neurolinquistics, etc.
F. Psychological Techniques
G. Behavioral Analysis Interviewing
H. Written Statement Analysis
I. Analysis of Actual Criminal & Screening Interviews
J. Statements & Confessions - Verbal & Written - Various Techniques
K. Proper Attire & Demeanor
L. Examination Room Procedures
M. Use of Interpreters, Sign Language, etc.
- Lecture, Discussion, Videos, "Mock" Situations, Practice
VII. Legal & Ethical Aspects (20 Hours) (13 Legal – 7 Ethical)
A. Basic Substantive & Procedural Law
B. Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure
C. Survey of Case Law Since Frye
D. Survey of Licensing Legislation & APA Model License
E. Daubert, Scheffer, and Recent Case Law Decisions
F. Employee Polygraph Protection Act, American With Disabilities Act, Equal Employment
G. Scientific Foundations for Expert Testimony
H. Requirements for Admissibility
I. Privileged Communication & Self-Incrimination
J. Miranda, Garrity, and Other Relevant Case Law Decisions
K. Consent, Stipulation, and EPPA Forms & Procedures
L. Moral & Ethical Standards
M. APA, AAPP, ASTM Code of Ethics, Standards of Practice, etc.
N. Procedures for Proper Court Testimony
- Lecture, Discussion, Videos, Case Studies
VIII. Polygraph Skills (80 Hours)
A. Observing Actual PDD Examinations
B. Conducting "Mock" Situations of Class Participants & "Actors"
C. Practice on Tests, Techniques, Interviewing, Chart Analysis
- Demonstrations, Videos, Practice
IX. Miscellaneous (10 Hours)
A. Research - Validity & Reliability Studies
B. Report Writing Skills and Report & Forms
C. Investigative Techniques & Coordination with Investigators
D. Anti-Polygraph Factions
E. Orientation to Polygraph vs. CVSA and Other Methods of Deception Detection
F. Public Education & Public Speaking Engagements
- Lecture, Discussion, Videos
X. Evaluation (Objective, Essay/Short-Answer, Situational) (20 Hours)
B. 2 Written Examinations on Situational Use of PDD Techniques
D. 1 Written Examination on Legal Aspects
E. 1 Practical Examination on PDD Skills
F. 10 Practical Examinations on Chart Analysis Skills ("Blind Analysis"/ Quality Control Tests)
G. Daily Written & Verbal Quizzes
H. Research Paper
I. 1 Comprehensive Final Examination (or APA Entrance Examination if Re-Instituted)
A. Individual & Group Consultation
B. Evaluation of Actual Examinations Conducted by Graduate After Basic Training Completion
C. 30 Examinations (75% Criminal Specific, 25% Screening) Required over a Minimum of 6 Months and Maximum of 24 Months for Final Certification
An internship will be required for final graduation and certification of the participant. The internship will require the completion of a minimum of thirty (30) polygraph examinations within a twenty-four (24) month period following the Academic Phase of the program. Extensions of the time requirement are permitted when the Institute Director and/or the Quality Control Committee believe that an extension is warranted due to circumstances beyond the control of the participant. At least twenty-five (25%) percent of the internship examinations must be specific-issue type examinations unless waived by the Quality Control Committee. This would be completed during your regular employ-ment as a polygraphist with your law enforcement agency.
The internship will require the submission of the polygraph test questions, copies of the polygraph charts, and the test data analysis as evaluated in a "hand-score" and a computer score, when applicable, to the Institute Director. This may be done individually or all at one time depending upon the needs of the participant through e-mail, fax, etc. along with telephone consultation.
Certification
The program is separated into two phases:
(1) The Academic Phase
(2) The Internship Phase
Once the Academic phase is completed, the participant will receive an initial certificate that indicates that he/she has successfully-completed the academic phase of the training program and may now conduct polygraph examinations under the indirect supervision of the Institute Director for the Internship Phase. If the participant is from a jurisdiction that requires direct supervision during the Internship Phase as part of the State Licensing Act, he/she must make arrangements to meet whatever the state requirements are. Once final certification is granted, the participant will receive a Certification of Completion indicating the date of graduation and any accreditation(s) that the School has received.
IT SHOULD BE UNDERSTOOD THAT SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION AND FINAL CERTIFICATION FROM THIS PROGRAM IS ONLY ONE OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION INTO THE VARIOUS NATIONAL AND STATE PROFESSIONAL POLYGRAPH ASSOCIATIONS AND/OR THE GRANTING OF A LICENSE TO PRACTICE POLYGRAPH IN THE JURISDICTION THAT REQUIRES SUCH.
All examinations are "PASS/FAIL" examin All examinations are "PASS/FAIL" examinations whether written, verbal or practical. A minimum, passing score on all written examinations of 80% is required. The 80% is NOT an expected average on tests, but is the minimum required to pass each written examination. Each written examination will encompass formats which include questions and tasks of various types; e.g., multiple choice, true/false, matching, listing, short answer, essay, picture matching, and problem-solving. No "curving” of grades will be conducted on any written examination. Participants are expected to perform - extensive studying is required
All examinations are "PASS/FAIL" examinations whether written, verbal or practical. A minimum, passing score on all written examinations of 80% is required. The 80% is NOT an expected average on tests, but is the minimum required to pass each written examination. Each written examination will encompass formats which include questions and tasks of various types; e.g., multiple choice, true/false, matching, listing, short answer, essay, picture matching, and problem-solving. No "curving” of grades will be conducted on any written examination. Participants are expected to perform - extensive studying is required!
Some examinations will involve practical skills evaluation both off and on video tape. For accreditation purposes, all forensic psychophysiology schools must require several written examinations for polygraph and forensic psychophysiological detection of deception knowledge, including a comprehensive final examination, as well as separate written examinations for medical and physiological aspects, psychological aspects, and legal aspects. Participants are required by accreditation standards to complete two entire polygraph testing situations using separate techniques on each while either being video-taped or documented by an Institute faculty member from start to finish.
If a participant scores below 80% on any written examination or quiz or fails any practical exercise, or assignment, he/she will be placed on probation. The participant will be afforded ample opportunity to repeat all failed evaluative measures; however, they must repeat and achieve a minimum 80% on the entire examination that they failed - not just that portion or portions which they answered incorrectly. Two (2) consecutive scores below 80% on any written/verbal evaluative measure or two (2) consecutive failures on any practical evaluative measure will result in dismissal from the program.
This is an intensive, time-consuming, and difficult program. Average intelligence is all that is required to be successful along with diligence, hard work, devotion to study, willingness to spend the time necessary to read and study daily for the 12 weeks duration. The intensity generally "slacks-off" somewhat after the first 2/3rd of the program is completed; however, that does not mean that it is time to relax. Hard work is still necessary.
Anyone who is not willing to expend the time and effort necessary to be successful for the 12-week period of the basic training should not apply for the course. Also, under international standards established by the American Society for Testing & Materials, those who complete basic training must adhere to continuing educa-tion and training requirements in order to remain in the practice of forensic detection of deception, which includes, but is not limited to, ethical standards, standards of practice, and continuing education standards.
Attendance is Mandatory! Excused absences are for death in the family/close friends, subpoenaed court appearance, or participant illness. Since unexpected emer-gencies do arise, each will be handled on an individual basis in order to determine if they are excused absences. The American Polygraph Association requires physical presence of the participant in the classroom for a minimum of 90% if the program that would allow for no more than 45 hours missed (5.5 class days) maximum for successful completion. All absences will require that the participant make arrangements with another class member to have the missed class portions audio-recorded. The participant must provide the person doing the recordings with a tape recorder and enough tapes to cover an 8 hour session for each day missed. The recordings do not relieve the participant from the APA requirement of physical presence in 90% of the program. There are Saturday classes and evening classes where attendance will be required! Do not ask for waivers for weekend and evening classes for personal commitments – they will NOT be granted – if that creates a problem, then you should not attend until you have 12 weeks free of personal commitments. The information missed cannot be properly relayed through others “notes.”
This is an intensive program that will require most of the participant's concentration during the course, especially during the first 9 weeks. Any classes missed must be made up by the participant individually.
Extended illness or absence will require the participant to withdraw from the course. If the course has reached the 200-hour level and if the situation is beyond the control of the participant, he/she will be allowed to finish the program in the next regularly scheduled forensic psychophysiology course in session as long as classroom space is available as well as lodging space. Academic failure is not considered a reason beyond the participant's control.
Any person who cannot attend class on a regular basis should not apply for admission to the program. THIS IS A THREE MONTH COMMITMENT!
Honor CodeAny participant who is aware of dishonesty, cheating, or theft by another parti-cipant and does not report it to the Institute Director or HACC Director of Police Training or the PSPA Training Coordinator or the Program Instructor of the particular session, will also be in violation of the Honor Code and will be dealt with by expulsion.
Any Participant under suspicion of any dishonesty, cheating, or theft will be afforded the right to be given a polygraph examination by any polygraphist who is agreeable to the participant and the Institute Director at no cost to the participant.
Any decision concerning expulsion by the Institute Director of any participant may be appealed to the HACC Director of Police Training with any final appeal, if necessary, to the Institute Quality Control Committee.
Persons expelled from the program for violation of the Honor Code will not be eligible for entrance into any future basic, advanced, or continuing education forensic psychophysiology programs offered through this Institute.
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Dress Code
Coats/ties, suits, dress clothes are NOT required or needed for any reason as far as the course and its activities. Participants may dress in whatever clothing they feel most comfortable in since you will be sitting for eight (8) hours a day in some cases; e.g., jeans, sweats, shorts, t-shirts, etc. Also, in working with analog polygraphs, ink has a tendency to sometimes get onto a participant’s clothing that might ruin dress clothes. The graduation dinner (if held - at the desire of the participants) is informal.
Class Schedules
Class schedules vary depending upon the availability of the school's faculty, all of whom are practicing forensic psychophysiologists using the polygraph technique in the law enforcement, corrections, and private field or are practicing professionals in the areas of law, physiology or psychology.
Normally, classes will be conducted on Monday through Friday; however, due to instructor availability and/or class cancellation due to illness or emergency, several Saturday classes and evening classes will be required. There will be at least one extended weekend break built into the schedule so participants attending from a long distance may return home to be with family members.
There will be no classes scheduled on normal government holidays: New Year's Day and the day after, Martin Luther King Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving and the Friday and Monday after, and Christmas Eve Day through the day after New Year's Day.
Class times will vary according to instructor availability. There will be 8 fifty-minute hours of class daily with an hour for lunch/dinner. There may be some days shorter, but none will exceed eight hours of class time. There will be as many
School Location
All classes are held at the
Lodging
Lodging and three meals daily as well as coffee breaks are provided for participants at no charge at the NCTC Facility as well as area restaurants surrounding Fort Indiantown Gap. The food coupons given entail approximately $20 per day (which does not include “tips”) so the participant should seek an additional food per deim from their department. There is no smoking allowed anywhere in the lodging facilities or the polygraph building – it must be done outside. PERSONS WHO SMOKE IN THE LODGING FACILITIES WILL BE EXPELLED FROM THE FACILITY AND MUST CONTINUE THE COURSE WITH LODGING AT THEIR OWN EXPENSE. For more information on lodging facilities and details, please contact NCTC directly to Captain Kraig Kiehl at 877-806-6293.
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Transportation
The polygraph school building and the lodging facilities are NOT within walking distance. There is only one restaurant, for which participants are provided meal coupons, within walking distance of the lodging facilities. All of the other restaurants honoring participant coupons are in excess of five miles away. Bringing a vehicle or leasing one upon arrival would be necessary. The average leasing cost for the 12 weeks is $3,500 plus mileage. Transportation to and from
College Credits
At the present time, 10 college credits of unspecified Criminal Justice electives are awarded by
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The Pennsylvania State Police/Harrisburg Area Community College Polygraph Institute at the
The school is fully accredited by the American Polygraph Association (APA). It also has full approval of the American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP) and the National Polygraph Association (NPA). The program is also accredited as part of the entire NCTC Program by CALEA (Commission for Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies).
The school is a member of the International Association of Forensic Psychophysio-logical Institutes (IAFPI).
The Institute Director is a member of the Academy of Certified Polygraphists (ACP), American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP), American Polygraph Association (APA), National Polygraph Association (NPA), British & European Polygraph Association, and the American Society for Testing & Materials (ASTM). He is the former President and former Executive Director of Pennsylvania Polygraph Examiners’ Association, and the current Quality Control Director of AAPP and is currently on the Board of Directors of APA.
He holds the APA'S "Advanced & Specialized Training Certification" and "Specialized Sex Offender Testing Certification". He also holds the AAPP’s “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist Certification”. All polygraph instructors in the program are members of the American Association of Police Polygraphists or the American Polygraph Association or both and are active, practicing polygraphists and present or former law enforcement polygraphists.
Elmer Criswell - Director & Chief Instructor - APA Certified Primary Instructor (APACPI) - B.A. in Education and M.S. in Criminal Justice; graduate of Zonn Institute of Polygraph; Police (Clearview, WV P.D.) & Private Polygraphist since 1972 with over 15,000 examinations; holds APA "Advanced & Specialized Training” and “Specialized Sex Offender Testing" Certifications; Holds AAPP “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification; Court-Qualified Expert Witness; Former Director of three other polygraph schools and trained approximately 350 polygraphists; published many polygraph articles and past Editor of "The Polygraph Chronicles", an international newsletter; Member of ASTM and Chairman of Ethics Subcommittee; Professor of Criminal Justice at Harrisburg Area Community College since 1975 – Program Chair 1998-2007; Past President and Executive Director of Pennsylvania Polygraph Examiners' Association (PPEA); Charter Member of American Association of Police Polygraphists (Current Quality Control Director); Member of American Polygraph Association (Current Director), National Polygraph Association; Distinguished Fellow – Academy of Certified Polygraphists; Member of the British & European Polygraph Association; Recipient of APA’s 2003 Al & Dorthea Clinchard Award; Recipient of AAPP’s Highest Honor, 2004 Max Wastl Award; Recipient of APA’s Highest Honor, 2005 Leonarde Keeler Award. Teaches all Polygraph topics.
Dr. James Matte – APACPI – B.S. in Criminalistics, M.S. in Criminal Justice, Ph.D. in Criminology; graduate of Backster School of Lie Detection; Private Polygraphist for over 32 years; Court-Qualified Expert Witness; has published 3 polygraph books; has engaged in extensive published research studies; Member of APA, ASTM, PPEA as well as Empire State Polygraph Society, Florida Polygraph Association, American Psycho-logical Society, and Society for Psychophysiological Research; has been a worldwide lecturer on polygraphy; is an Instructor at the Backster School of Lie Detection. Teaches Backster Technique and Matte Quadra-Track Technique and all other Polygraph topics.
Morris Ragus - APACPI - B.S. in Criminal Justice and M.A. in Psychophysi-ology; graduate of Harrisburg Area Community College School of Polygraph Technology; Government & Private Polygraphist since 1978; Retired U.S. Army Intelligence and PA Inspector General Office; Court-Qualified Expert Witness; Published polygraph research; Former President, Director, and Executive Director of the PPEA; Holds the APA "Advanced & Specialized Training” and “Specialized Sex Offender Testing” Certifica-tions"; Member of APA; Member of ASTM; Teaches Psychophysiology, Axciton and Limestone Computer Polygraph Instrumentation and all Polygraph topics.
John “Jack” Consigli – APACPI – B. S. in Criminal Justice and M.A. in Criminal Justice; graduate of Backster School of Lie Detection; Law Enforcement Polygraphist for over 14 years with the Massachusetts State Police; Captain in charge of Internal Affairs for MSP (Retired); Member of APA and Member of AAPP; holds the AAPP “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification and the APA “Advanced & Specialized Training” and “Specialized Sex Offender Testing” Certifications. Teaches Backster Technique and all other Polygraph topics. Formerly the President, Chairman of the Board and Vice President of Law Enforcement in APA. Teaches Backster Technique, Question Formulation, Test Data Analysis, and all other Polygraph topics.
Holly Fegley – APACPI - B.S. in Criminal Justice; graduate of Maryland Institute of Criminal Justice; Police Polygraphist for over 10 years with the Pennsylvania State Police as a CID Corporal; Member of APA & AAPP; Vice President of Law Enforcement Division of PPEA; Holds APA’s "Specialized Sex Offender Testing Certification"; Teaches Laboratory Polygraph topics, Instrumentation, Test Question Construction, and Test Data Analysis.
Patrick Kelly – APACPI – B.A. in History and Graduate Study in Psychology; graduate of the Department of Defense Polygraph Institute (DODPI); Government & Private Poly-graphist for over 25 years; Retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (31 years); Adjunct Faculty Member at DODPI; Member of APA and AAPP and PPEA; holds APA “Advanced & Specialized Training” Certification; Teaches Interview and Interrogation Techniques, Statement Analysis, and all Polygraph topics.
Donald Imbordino – APACPI – B. A. in Behavioral Science and Graduate Study in Forensic Psychophysiology (University of Virginia); graduate of the Department of Defense Polygraph Institute; Retired from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Government and Private Polygraphist since 1987; has conducted over 3000 polygraph examinations in U.S. and internationally; Court Qualified Polygraph Expert in state and federal courts; Adjunct Faculty Member at DODPI; Director of Computerized Polygraph Training at the Texas Department of Public Safety Polygraph School; Member of APA and AAPP; formerly AAPP Vice President and Regional Director, and President and currently the Chairman of the AAPP Board of Directors; Member and former Vice President of Georgia Polygraph Association; holds AAPP’s “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification. Teaches Drug and Narcotics Testing, Asset Forfeiture Testing, Test Data Analysis, Axciton Computer Polygraph Instrumentation, and all other Polygraph topics.
David Renzelman – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Psychology; M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice Education; graduate of USAMPS Polygraph School (now DODPI); over 30 years’ experience as a Government Polygraphist with U.S. Marines, Air Force OSI, and U.S. Department of Energy Security & Counterintelligence Divisions; graduate of F.B.I. National Academy; Director of Instruction at DODPI for 8 years; Member of AAPP and APA; teaches Countermeasures, Test Data Analysis; Relevant-Irrelevant Testing, and all other polygraph topics.
Dallas Wolfe – APACPI – B.A. Degree in Criminal Justice; graduate of Argenbright International Polygraph Institute; Police Polygraphist for 14 years; 1st Sergeant and Polygraph Unit Section Chief with West Virginia State Police (Retired); graduate of F.B.I. Advanced Polygraph Course and F.B.I. National Academy; Member of APA, West Virginia Mountain State Polygraph Association. Teaches Pre-test Interviewing, Interro-gation Techniques, Question Formulation, and Test Data Analysis.
Robert Soop – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice; graduate of the Pennsylvania Institute of Polygraph Science and the Police Academy Polygraph School at Harrisburg Area Community College; Police and Government Polygraphist since 1992; Special Agent with Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General – Child Predator Section; Member of APA, AAPP, and PPEA. Teaches History & Development, Question Formulation, Test Data Analysis, Instrumentation, and Polygraph Laboratory topics.
Erik Abel - APACPI - A.A. in Business; graduated from the Pennsylvania Institute of Polygraph Science and the Police Academy Polygraph School at Harrisburg Area Community College; Police Polygraphist since 1992 with the Lancaster Bureau of Police – retired as a Detective Sergeant in 2007; Member of AAPP and APA; current Executive Director and former President and former Board member in PPEA; holds AAPP’s “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification and APA’s "Specialized Sex Offender Testing Certification"; Teaches Laboratory Polygraph topics, Analog Instrumentation, Screening Examinations, Test Question Construction, and Test Data Analysis.
Ray Solt – APACPI – graduated from the Harrisburg Area Community College School of Polygraph Technology; retired Corporal with the Pennsylvania State Police; Police and Private Polygraphist since 1983; Member of AAPP, APA and PPEA; holds APA’s “Specialized Sex Offender Testing” Certification. Teaches Question Formulation, Test Data Analysis, Analog Instrumentation, Sex Offender Testing, Axciton & Lafayette Computer Polygraph Instrumentation, and Polygraph Laboratory topics.
Lynn Marcy – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice; M.S. Degree in Criminal Justice; graduate of Keeler Polygraph Institute; Certified Polygraphist since 1956; former Director of Keeler Polygraph Institute (1957-1961); current Director of American Institute of Polygraph Technology (1973 – Present); World Renowned Polygraphist and Polygraph Expert Witness; Charter Member of APA (Past President); Member of AAPP and ASTM; Member of Michigan Association of Polygraph Examiners (Past President). Recipient of APA’s President’s Award (1980), Al & Dorothea Clinchard Award (1990), J. J. Heger Award (1982); APA’s Highest Honor – Leonarde Keeler Award (1987), and AAPP’s Regional Director’s Award (2004). Teaches Pre-Test Interviews, Countermeasures, and all other Polygraph topics.
Kenneth Davis – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice; graduated from the Maryland Institute of Criminal Justice; Police Polygraphist with Pennsylvania State Police for over 10 years as a CID Corporal; Member of APA and PPEA; holds APA’s “Specialized Sex Offender Testing” Certification; Teaches Laboratory Polygraph topics, Instrumentation, Test Question Construction, and Test Data Analysis.
Gordon Moore – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice; graduated from the Academy of Forensic Polygraph; Police Polygraphist with the Texas Rangers from 1984 to 2001 where he retired as a Lieutenant and Director (1995 – 2000) of the Texas Department of Public Safety Law Enforcement Polygraph School; has been a polygraphist since with the Nevada Department of Public Safety and Las Vegas Police Department since 2001 where he is currently the Polygraph Manager; he was also an instructor with the DOD Polygraph Institute; he is a member of AAPP where he served various Board offices to include the Presidency and is currently the Treasurer; holds AAPP “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification; he is also a Member of APA; he is a Member of the Texas Association of Polygraph Examiners and the Texas Association of Law Enforcement Polygraph Investigators where he also served various Board positions to include the presidency of both; he is a recipient of AAPP’s highest award – the Max Wastl Award (2006), (APA’s John Reid Memorial Award (1999), and the Texas Department of Public Safety, Criminal Law Enforcement: Division Chief’s Award (1998). Teaches Test Data Analysis, Countermeasures, Test Question Construction as well as many other polygraph topics.
Adam Barton – APACPI – B.S. and M.S. Degrees in Criminal Justice; graduated from the Pennsylvania State Police/HACC Polygraph Institute at the Northeast Counterdrug Training Center; Police Polygraphist from 2002 – 2008 with West Manchester Township Police department, York, PA; currently in private practice; Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice and Coordinator of the Police Science program at Harrisburg Area Community College since 2007; member of AAPP and APA and holds APA’s “Specialized Sex Offender Testing" Certification and is a Member of the International Association of Identification; teaches Laboratory Polygraph topics, Test Question Construction, and Test Data Analysis.
Scott Patterson – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Biology; graduated from the HACC/Police Academy Polygraph School; retired Corporal with the Pennsylvania State Police; Police Polygraphist since 2001; currently in private practice; is a Member of APA and holds their “Specialized Sex Offender Testing" Certification. Teaches all polygraph topics.
Barry Cushman – APACPI – B.S. in Criminal Justice; graduated from the Pennsylvania State Police/HACC Polygraph Institute at the Northeast Counterdrug Training Center; Police Polygraphist for the Portland Police Department, Portland, ME, since 2003; Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice at Andover College (Portland, ME); is also an Ordained Minister; Member of AAPP where he serves on the Board of Directors as the Chaplain, Member of APA – Current Director, Member of the Maine Polygraph Association where he serves as President, member of ASTM International, Member of the Society of Applied Research in Memory & Cognition, and a member of the Society for Psychophysiological Research. Teaches PDD Research topics, Test Data Analysis, and Test Question Construction and testing Techniques.
Bruce Robertson – APACPI – B.S. Degree in Management; graduated from the National Training Center of Polygraph Science and the F.B.I. National Academy; Police Polygraphist since 1988 with the Centerville Police Department, Centerville, OH, where he currently holds the rank of Captain; Member and former President and Chairman of the Board of AAPP, member of APA, member of the Florida Polygraph Association, Member of the Ohio Association of Polygraph Examiners where he has held various offices to include President & Chairman of the Board; Distinguished Fellow of the Academy of Certified Polygraphists where he has also held various offices to include President & Chairman of the Board, and serves as an Accreditation Inspector for CALEA (Commission for the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies); he is a Recipient of the 2007 AAPP Life Member Award, the 2007 AAPP Holly Canty Memorial Award for Leadership & Service, and the 1995 and 2001 AAPP Richard O. Arther Award for Professional Excellence. He teaches Screening, Interviewing, E.P.P.A. and most other polygraph topics.
Christopher Pukenas –APACPI – M.A. Degree in Education; graduated from the Canadian Police College Polygraph School; Lieutenant and Polygraph Unit Supervisor with the New Jersey State Police and with NJSP since 1982; Police Polygraphist since 1988; Member of APA, the Canadian Association of Police Polygraphists (CAPP), and New Jersey Polygraph Association. Teaches Canadian Police College Zone Comparison Technique, Question Formulation, and Test Data Analysis.
Robert Heard – APACPI – graduated from GORMAC School of Polygraphy; Certified Polygraphist since 1982; Police Polygraphist since 1999 with San Bernardino County (CA) Sheriff’s Department; Retired from Pomona (CA) Police Department; Member of AAPP (Current Secretary), APA, and California Association of Polygraph Examiners (CAPE) (Current Secretary – former President, Vice-President and Board of Directors). Recipient of AAPP’s Highest Honor, 2001 Max Wastl Award, APA’s 2002, J.J. Heger Award, CAPE’s 2001 Distinguished Service Award, and CAPE’s Robert E. Henson Memorial Award; holds AAPP’s “Forensic Law Enforcement Polygraphist” Certification and APA’s “Advanced & Specialized Training” Certification. Teaches Pre- and Post- Test Interviewing, Test Data Analysis, and all other Polygraph topics.
Steven Seitchik – Supplemental Instructor – B.S. in Psychology and M.A. in Clinical Psychology; Clinical Psychologist & Social Worker since 1993; Adjunct Psychology Professor at HACC since 1998; Teaching Assistant at Pepperdine University in Psycho-pharmacology and Principles & Theories of Learning; Teaches Psychology and Pharmacology.
David Spotts - Supplemental Instructor - B.A. in Political Science and J.D. in Law; graduated from Harrisburg Area Community College School of Polygraph Technology; Police Polygraphist for 10 years; current Chief of Police at Mechanicsburg Borough Police Department; Graduate of FBI National Academy; Practicing Attorney and Solicitor since 1993; Teaches Legal Issue topics.
Dr. John Sword - Supplemental Instructor - B.S. in Biochemistry; M.S. in Nutritional Sciences; Ph.D. in Nutritional Sciences; Professor of Biology and Anatomy/Physiology at Harrisburg Area Community College since 1994; Teaches Physiology topics.
Computerized Polygraph – Specialized Guest Instructors provide training on computerized polygraphs from the various manufacturers Lafayette Instrument Company - Chris Fausett; Limestone Technologies – Sue Luttrell; Stoelting Company – Shawn Edwards, Axciton – School Staff (Erik Abel, Don Imbordino, Morris Ragus).
ALL INSTRUCTORS LISTED MAY NOT BE USED IN EVERY SCHEDULED TRAINING PROGRAM.
The Pennsylvania State Police Academy, the Northeast Counterdrug Training Center, and Harrisburg Area Community College and do not discriminate in admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, political affiliation or belief, age sex, national origin, ancestry, non-job-related disability, place of birth, General Education Development Certificate (GED), marital status, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Inquires concerning affirmative action should be directed to the Office of Human Resources, Room 126, Whitaker Hall, Harrisburg Area Community College, One HACC Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17110, Telephone (717) 780-2367. For information regarding services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities contact: Marguerite MacDonald, Director, Learning Support Services, telephone (717) 780-2456.
If a participant has a problem or complaint concerning an instructor, he/she should discuss this with the instructor first. If that discussion does not resolve the situation or the participant does not feel comfortable discussing the issue with the instructor, the School Director, Elmer Criswell, should be contacted concerning the problem. If the problem cannot be resolved by the School Director or the problem is the School Director and the participant does not feel comfortable discussing the situation with him, then the NCTC Polygraph School Coordinator; or Beth Dombrowsky, HACC’s Director of Law Enforcement Training; or Corporal Tom Laziki, PSP Polygraph Unit Coordinator, should be contacted.
The NCTC assigned Polygraph School Coordinator should also be notified if there are any problems with NCTC facilities, lodging facilities, classroom problems, and/or problems with the meal plan.
Contact Information is listed below:
Beth Dombrowsky: HACC Director of Law Enforcement Training may be contacted by direct telephone at 717-780-2408 or toll-free in
Elmer Criswell: PSP/HACC/NCTC Polygraph Institute Director by direct tele-phone at 717-780-2513 (HACC - Direct) (Toll Free in
Corporal Thomas Laziki: PSP Polygraph Unit Coordinator, may be contacted at by telephone at 570-387-4261 or by e-mail at: TLazicki@state.pa.us
Master Sergeant Bradley Klinger: NCTC Training Officer-In-Charge, may be contacted at 877-806-6293 or by e-mail at c-bklinger@state.pa.us
The NCTC Mailing Address is:
C/O Department of Military & Veterans’ Affairs
Building 8-64
877-806-6293 or 717-861-2070
FAX Number : 717-861-8225