Lone Star College-University Park's (LSC-University Park) Criminal Justice Department hosted its inaugural True Crime Camp, on April 3, 2024. This immersive experience offered students a hands-on exploration of the various aspects of criminal justice, going beyond the image of traditional law enforcement.

"The True Crime Camp is designed to educate students on the diverse career paths within the criminal justice field," explained Jermaine Johnson, Ph.D., professor of Criminal Justice at LSC-University Park. "We want to showcase the critical roles individuals play in crime scene investigation, corrections, courts, and more."

The event welcomed 150 registered students from Klein ISD to the LSC-University Park campus for a day of interactive learning. Students heard special guest speakers from various law enforcement agencies throughout the event. They participated in breakout sessions, delving into specific areas like criminal law, court systems, and crime scene investigations. The Houston Forensics Science Center set up a mock crime scene where students experienced the procedures of investigating a crime scene.

"We are thrilled to have partnered with Klein ISD to offer this unique learning opportunity," said Johnson. "We hope this True Crime Camp inspires students to consider a career in criminal justice and contribute positively to their communities."

Following the breakout sessions, students had an opportunity to connect with potential employers and college representatives during a dedicated recruiting career fair. This event aimed to broaden the perception of criminal justice careers, showcasing diverse pathways beyond the traditional law enforcement role, such as careers in social work, adult probation, juvenile justice, and the court system as paralegals and attorneys. 

Professor Johnson anticipates True Crime Camp becoming an annual event and hopes to grow it into a system-wide event by expanding its reach to embrace students from various school districts and fostering a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system within the Lone Star College community.

LSC-University Park offers more than 70 programs of study, including credit and non-credit courses, workforce training, and continuing education classes. Classes can be taken during the day, evenings, and weekends in traditional, online, and hybrid formats. For more information or to register online, visit www.lonestar.edu/upstudentsupport, call 281-290-2600, or email UPAdvising@LoneStar.edu.

Established in 2012, Lone Star College-University Park has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing and most innovative higher education institutions in the country. The college, led by Virginia M. Fraire, Ph.D., is devoted to impacting the community's prosperity and upward mobility through student success. LSC-University Park’s expert and compassionate faculty and staff provide students with holistic and immersive education and training in disciplines and industries that meet current and future workforce needs.

Located on the grounds of the former Compaq Computer Corporation and Hewlett Packard's world headquarters, LSC-University Park's facilities include the Center for Science & Innovation, the Energy & Manufacturing Institute, Learning Innovation Labs, and the Geology Rock Wall. It is also home to the University of Houston-NW Downtown, Lone Star Corporate College, iSchool, and YMCA Children's Academy. For information on taking fall or summer classes at LSC-University Park, visit LoneStar.edu/StartUP, call 281.290.2600 or email UPAdvising@LoneStar.edu. Academic advisers are available to assist students with questions about course selection, degree plans or the registration process.

Lone Star College enrolls over 80,000 students each semester providing high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Mario K. Castillo, J.D., serves as Chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area. LSC has been named a 2023 Great Colleges to Work For® institution by the Chronicle of Higher Education and recognized by Fortune Magazine and Great Place To Work® as one of this year’s Best Workplaces in Texas™. LSC consists of eight colleges, seven centers, eight Workforce Centers of Excellence and Lone Star Corporate College. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.