Sergeant Thomas Briscoe, a campus police officer (CPO) with the SMCM Office of Public Safety, has successfully earned the designation of Certified Professional Criminal Investigator (CPCI), becoming the first member of the department to achieve this certification.
"This significant professional milestone reflects advanced training, dedication, and expertise in criminal investigative practices," said Chief Felix Martinez, Ed.D., director of public safety. "Sergeant Briscoe’s achievement strengthens our department’s investigative capabilities and reinforces our commitment to professionalism, accountability and excellence in public safety."
Offered through the McAfee Institute, the CPCI training program provided comprehensive education in criminal investigation, including crime scene investigation, evidence handling, interview techniques and other essential training for law enforcement investigations. Sergeant Briscoe spent about a year completing the program, through video-based tutorials, interactive labs and professional mentorship.
Briscoe believes his certification will benefit the Office of Public Safety and the campus in general. "It keeps us credible, knowing that investigations are done the proper way, to a certain standard."
The College introduced a new campus safety model in August of 2023. In September of 2024, the office received a $375,000 grant from the Maryland Higher Education Commission to enhance campus safety by expanding camera systems, swipe card door access and improved lighting on campus, among other improvements.
