Founded by forensic criminologist Dr. Laura Pettler, LPA brings together experts from multiple disciplines to examine complex cases, develop investigative tools and methodologies, and educate professionals. Our work connects scientific analysis, investigative experience, and practical innovation across three core areas: forensic investigation, education, and equipment.

Our Roundtable of Experts

Complex questions demand more than a single perspective. LPA’s Roundtable of Experts brings together professionals whose specialized knowledge and experience contribute to a thorough examination of the evidence. The roundtable represents our commitment to solving your case: every voice, including your family’s is heard, every perspective is considered, and every contribution is respected.

Our multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach allows us to challenge assumptions, identify gaps, evaluate competing explanations, and distinguish what the evidence supports from what remains unknown. We approach each case with objectivity, scientific rigor, and respect for the people affected.

Forensic Investigation

LPA’s investigative arm provides specialized case consultation, forensic analysis, reconstruction, and expert witness services for law enforcement, coroners, attorneys, and families.

Our areas of work include:

• Crime scene staging and suspicious death investigation

• Homicide and cold case consultation

• Forensic victimology and behavioral crime scene analysis

• Bloodstain pattern analysis and shooting incident reconstruction

• Timeline development and structured case analysis

• Equine injury and fatality investigation

Dr. Pettler’s Murder Room Method and Conflict-Resolution-Benefit (CRB) model support a structured examination of case information, relationships, circumstances, and evidence. Our objective is to develop findings that are clearly explained, supported by the available evidence, and transparent about their limitations.

Professional Education

The Laura Pettler & Associates International Forensics Institute provides online and in-person education for law enforcement officers, coroners, forensic professionals, and other investigative practitioners. Courses connect scientific principles with practical application through case studies, structured analysis, reconstruction exercises, and hands-on instruction. Subjects include crime scene staging, death investigation, forensic reconstruction, and the Murder Room Method.

LPA is also developing Pettler’s Mounted Forensic Operations System (MFOS), a multidisciplinary training and operational development system for law enforcement and civilian mounted units. With NASAR’s SARTECH III serving as its core search and rescue foundation, MFOS integrates forensic horsemanship, mounted reconnaissance and searching, evidence preservation, and horse-and-rider development. Coming soon, participants will be able to complete mounted forensic coursework through LPAIFI.com and train with their horses and MFOS instructors at XR Crossroads Ranch.

Forensic Technology & Equipment

LPA develops specialized equipment and investigative systems that support forensic documentation, reconstruction, and structured case analysis.

Our innovations include:

• The Kaleidoscope Shooting & Bloodstain Reconstruction System

• The Murder Room Death Investigation Method and the micro-apps within its system

Our equipment and educational programs connect the tools investigators use with the methods and reasoning needed to interpret their findings.

Our Ethos

LPA’s work is decedent-centered, evidence-driven, and grounded in scientific integrity. We honor the individual whose injury or death brought a case to our attention while treating families with dignity and respect. Across investigation, education, and equipment development, we follow the evidence, challenge assumptions, consider alternative explanations, and communicate findings honestly.

Headquartered at XR Crossroads Ranch

LPA is headquartered at XR Crossroads Ranch in Monroe, North Carolina. The working horse farm provides an operational setting for professional education, forensic field exercises, mounted training, and media production. XR is also home to Dr. Pettler’s True Crime & Equines™ Ecosystem, which bring forensic experts, true crime storytelling, and equine interaction together through public events, camps, and retreats.

Connect With LPA

Whether you need specialized investigative assistance, professional education, forensic equipment, or support developing a mounted unit, connect with LPA to discuss your goals.

Explore Forensic Services · View Education & Training · Shop Forensic Equipment