Affiliated Faculty

_{Dr. James Abbott}

James has had numerous courses in criminal and crime scene investigations. In addition to his investigative training, he is a recipient of the FBI-LEEDA leadership Trilogy and a graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff & Command. James has also completed the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Instructor Development course. In addition to law enforcement training, James has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Middle Tennessee State University and a doctorate from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. James has taught numerous Criminal Justice and Investigative Classes.

James is currently a lecturer at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) and, prior to that, served as an adjunct professor at both MTSU and Tennessee State University. He has also served as an adjunct instructor at the University of Tennessee Law Enforcement Innovation Center, where he taught basic criminal investigations and crime scene management classes.

James’s primary research interest focuses on the use of forensic and technological tools to help criminal investigators improve investigative clearance rates. This includes using the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) as both a forensic and intelligence gathering tool. Further research interest involves the use of 3D imaging and artificial intelligence (AI) for bloodstain pattern analysis and crime scene reconstruction.

In addition to his law enforcement career, James served in the United States Army and the Tennessee National Guard, participating in both Operation Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Heather Hatcher, MA, is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Psychology at Middle Tennessee State University, where she has taught since 2004. Her teachings often focus on psychological disorders, profiling and criminal behavior, reflecting her long‑standing interest in the intersections of mental health, trauma, and the justice system.

Beyond her academic role, Heather is a trained Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogist (FIGG), having completed an advanced collegiate certificate program in 2024 as well as additional specialized FIGG coursework since 2021. She has contributed to multiple unidentified human-remains investigations, applying DNA analysis, genealogical research, and family tree reconstruction to help bring long‑awaited answers to families. Most recently she has begun to assist in identifying law enforcement leads for potential violent offenders. She is currently in the process of sitting for the IGGAB to become one of the first Accredited Investigative Genetic Genealogist.

Heather’s combined background in psychology and FIGG gives her a unique perspective on identity, inheritance, and human experience. She understands not only the scientific process behind forensic investigative ​​genetic genealogy but also the emotional weight carried by families seeking closure.