Maureen Velez, Trooper Tennessee Highway Patrol

Scene documentation is crucial with regard to any type of critical incident. Whether it be a vehicle crash or a disaster on a massive scale, it is necessary to record the aftermath to assist with the reconstruction of the event. This documentation may also provide useful data from which training opportunities for law enforcement and first responders can be developed.

 One of the primary tools utilized for scene documentation is the camera and a basic understanding of the camera will enable an investigator to more accurately photograph a scene. This four hour block of photography instruction will train novice photographers in camera basics and how to photograph special situations such as incidents that occur in low light or at night.

Trooper Maureen Velez began her career in law enforcement, in 2006, as a Deputy with the Hardeman County Sheriff’s Department.  In 2008, she accepted a position with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) and began recruit school in August of that year. Upon her graduation from cadet school, she was assigned to a road patrol position in Tipton County in the Memphis District.

In January 2010, Velez joined the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), operating in the Memphis and Jackson Districts. During her time with CIRT, she has become certified to teach and has been a guest instructor at the THP Training Academy for At-Scene, Advanced Crash Investigation and Crash Reconstruction. She has also been an adjunct instructor for Cadet Class 512.

Trooper Velez’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Photography from Florida State University. She is currently attending Southern Illinois University’s Masters of Business Administration program.