Paradise Valley Community College’s popular Cold Case class is back this fall and classes are filling up fast. Now entering its second year, the Administration of Justice Studies Special Topics course is generating buzz with both morning and evening sessions to accommodate PVCC’s diverse student needs.
If you’re intrigued by true crime and passionate about justice, this is your chance to investigate a real homicide case as a college student.
What sets this course apart?
Students in AJS198AF actually work to solve real cold cases—unsolved homicides provided by the Phoenix Police Department. Under the guidance of experienced law enforcement professionals, students use research skills and modern investigative tools, including social media, to dig into the details of unresolved crimes and possibly bring new leads to light.
The class is taught by Peter Gutierrez, a retired Goodyear Police Department officer with more than 40 years in public safety. Alongside him, students learn from a guest lecturer who formerly served as a cold case homicide detective, offering invaluable insight into one of the most challenging areas of criminal investigation.
“Very few people, aside from elite detectives, have the chance to make things right for the families of victims who have been waiting a long time for answers,” said Bootsie Martinez, PVCC’s AJS Program Director. “Here at PVCC, students can contribute meaningfully to achieving justice for those who have been left behind. Solving cold cases puts the ‘community’ into community college.”
Open to Everyone
Whether you’re studying criminal justice, forensics or psychology, or just have a deep interest in justice, this class is for you. No special background or prerequisites are required. As Martinez notes, “With the advent of social media and all the new technology, it is now possible for students, under the guidance of an experienced police detective, to put their online skills to work to solve cold cases.”
Sawyer Hamel, a forensic science major, took the class in Spring 2024 and found it to be a game-changer. “The most memorable part of this class was all of the amazing guest speakers… Hearing from so many professionals in the field, each with their own story, was incredibly impactful.”
Even those just starting out in their criminal justice journey are encouraged to join. Unlike traditional internships or ride-alongs, which often limit student involvement, PVCC’s Cold Case class gives students the unheard-of opportunity to dive straight into real investigations. As Hamel notes, “You get to work on an actual cold case, which is super cool. It made learning fun and meaningful. I’d absolutely recommend this class.”
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exceptional class. Spots are limited. Contact: Martinez by email, [email protected], or at (602) 787-6957.