
Brian Hempstead
Computer forensic examiner,
Gainesville FL Police Department
United States
Brian is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning military service, law enforcement, and digital forensics. As a former Army veteran, he brings a wealth of experience from his deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo. Brian's journey has seen him transition from active duty as a Psychological Operations Specialist and deployments with Special Forces to serving as an infantryman and intelligence analyst in the Illinois Army National Guard.
After his military service, Brian pursued his passion for knowledge, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Illinois State University. He then ventured into information technology, where he honed his skills as a systems engineer before making a significant career shift to law enforcement. As a small-town police officer in Downs, Illinois, Brian delved into the world of digital forensics, attending specialized training at The United States Secret Service National Computer Forensic Institute.
Leveraging his veteran benefits, Brian furthered his expertise through programs like Syracuse University's Onward to Opportunity and the VETTECH program, obtaining certifications in CISSP and expanding his knowledge in cybersecurity and digital forensics.
Currently serving as the Digital Forensics expert for the Gainesville Police Department Criminal Investigative Division, Brian is a pivotal member of the North Florida ICAC Task Force. With an impressive array of qualifications including CISSP, CFCE, 3CI, CFR, CCO, CCPA, CFME, and CCI, Brian provides invaluable expertise in computer forensic examinations, offering advanced capabilities in imaging, triage, and digital evidence examination. He also offers crucial technical guidance on legal processes and ICAC networks and assists investigators with OSINT and crypto investigations.
Brian's dedication to service, combined with his multifaceted skill set, makes him an indispensable asset to both the law enforcement community and the pursuit of justice
Sessions
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05-Jun-2025Salon CObfuscation in Digital Forensics - Joseph Andes Case Study