Criminal Investigator Earns Prestigious Forensic Computer Examiner Certification at Breakthrough Pace

NEW CITY, N.Y. – Detective Barbara Willen, a criminal investigator with the Rockland County District Attorney’s Investigative Unit, recently completed the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner Course offered by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS).

While candidates are given nearly six months to complete the program, Willen completed it in three.

The course tests fundamental computer digital forensic concepts, focusing on the examination and analysis of Microsoft Windows-based operating and file systems. Candidates must demonstrate both knowledge and practical skills of how computers function, how they store data, and how data can be retrieved from it, in order to earn the certification.

Chief of Detectives Deirdre Smith, who oversees the Investigative Unit at the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, emphasized the importance of this achievement not only for Willen’s professional growth, but also for the office as a whole.

“Detective Willen’s achievement represents the highest standard in the field of computer forensics,” said Smith. “Her dedication and accelerated completion of this program shows her commitment not only to professional excellence, but also to strengthening our ability to investigate and prosecute crimes in the digital age.”

As a prerequisite, candidates must first complete the rigorous two-week Basic Computer Forensic Examiner Course. Willen completed the basic course at the beginning of May and enrolled in the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner Course the following month.

The self-paced program consists of a four-part peer-reviewed section, followed by an independent practical and a final exam that is well over 100 questions. With the oversight of an IACIS coach, candidates are given one month per peer-review section, 30 days to complete the practical and 14 days for the final.

Although the program was designed to last from June through November, Willen successfully earned her certification on August 20, 2025.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity that the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office afforded me and for the mentors who believed in me over the years,” said Willen.

One of those mentors was Andrew Stack, a retired New York State Police Officer with 24 years in service, who is now a criminal investigator with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

Stack was the senior investigator for the NYSP and supervisor for the regional digital forensics lab responsible for five counties, including Rockland County. He has known Willen for three years and says that Willen’s contributions to the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office have been substantial.

“Detective Willen brings not only technical skill, but also a collaborative spirit and a sharp analytical mind,” said Stack. “Whether parsing digital artifacts, coordinating with law enforcement, or presenting findings, she approaches each task with diligence and integrity. She is, without question, an asset to her team and to the broader forensic community.”

Willen’s certification ensures the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office remains at the forefront of modern investigative practices.

“I’m looking to increase my expertise,” said Willen. “And I hope to pay it forward like others did for me.” 

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